Marvelous Mel

Rating: Null/10 (27 February 2003)

BRAVEHEART (1995) **** Mel Gibson, Patrick Mc Goohan, Sophie Marceau, Catherine McCormack, Angus MacFayden, Brendan Gleeson. Exceptionally directed epic about fabled Scottish rebel leader William Wallace (Gibson, who won an Oscar in his sophomore directing gig as well as Best Picture, is in fine form blending stoicism with romanticism) who in the 13th century led a bloody revolt of his fellow countrymen against the vile English King Edward I (sneeringly good Mc Goohan). Brutality never before seen but definitely expected with some superb battle sequence choreography and smart editing. Excellently produced and executed with some humor and genuine Shakespearean moments sprinkled in for good measure. First-rate and exciting filmmaking which won a total of 5 Academy Awards including the aforementioned as well as Best Makeup, Best Sound Effects Editing and for John Toll, Best Cinematography.