The Hollywood filmmaker, Michael Malone, is portrayed as an arrogant and politically left-leaning director who is very critical of American values and traditions. He is so fired up about his cause to abolish the 4th of July that he decides to make a documentary about it.
However, on the eve of the national holiday, Malone is visited by three ghosts: George Washington, General Patton, and John F. Kennedy. They each take him on a journey through American history and show him why the 4th of July is such an important day to celebrate.
During his travel through time, Malone has the chance to meet important figures in U.S. history such as President George Washington, and learn important life lessons about the significance of the sacrifices made by past generations, the importance of patriotism and love for one's country, and the courage it takes to stand up for one's beliefs.
The film features a star-studded cast including Kelsey Grammer as General Patton, Dennis Hopper as a sloppy, drug-addled terrorist, and Trace Adkins as an angel who embodies the spirit of America.
Overall, An American Carol is a political satire that pokes fun at both the left and the right and attempts to remind Americans of the great values and traditions upon which the country was founded.