One of the most politically important films of all-time

Rating: 9/10 (23 September 1999)

In criticizing BRAVEHEART, it is easy to jump on such perceived failings as excessive violence or homophobia or historical inaccuracy. What is easy to miss in assessing the movie, however, is its astonishing political resonance. It is difficult to think of a single movie which catalyzed a political process - in this case, Scotland's current move for independence - to the degree that this one has. No matter how manipulative the film may be, it demonstrated to the world an undeniable truth: That Scotland is not "English", that it has a national character and a history all its own, along with a deep resentment of the way it has been subsumed into "Great Britain".
On a technical level, BRAVEHEART is a wonder. While acknowledging the importance of second unit director Mic Rodgers, it is difficult to think of a second outing by a director that is as ambitious and, ultimately, successful as this. I would argue that John Toll's cinematography and James Horner's score are the pinnacles of their respective crafts in the '90s.
But it is on the emotional side (Duly supported by consummate craftsmanship) that BRAVEHEART triumphs. No matter how many times I view the film, I am thoroughly engaged in the heartbreak of young William's loss of his father and brother and the supreme sacrifice Wallace makes for nothing more than love of honor and freedom.