An epic in the great tradition

Rating: 9/10 (25 March 2000)

Yes, Mel does occasionally call attention to his own genius with the use of slow motion. Yes, the script is occasionally over-the top( What DOES 'they fought like warrior poets" MEAN?)Yes there are historical inaccuracies-so what? Does anybody think this movie is a history lesson? Altogether, this film is an enormous, extravagant epic, a sort of Celtic El Cid.Also, the film is just full of colorful characters, stirring dialogue, very good battle scenes( Gibson obviously studied Chimes at Midnight)and genuine 'sweep". One last thing..all, and I mean ALL ,of the performances are SUPERB. I found Angus McFadyens Bruce to be especially moving. In a sense, the film is about his moral and political education( another echo of Chimes at Midnight). In short, a magnificent film..I would give it a 9.65.