One of my all time favorites

Rating: 10/10 (22 November 2003)

There are some movies that stand the test of time and can be truly considered "all time greats". I believe Braveheart is one such movie. I've watched it numerous time and it never fails to captivate me. The beautiful landscapes, breathtaking cinematography, well choreographed battle sequences, and inspiring dialogue all combine for maximum dramatic impact. These are the things that keep me coming back to Braveheart.
Braveheart is, above all else, a movie about the human spirit. It's about a commoner named William Wallace, who's father and brother are killed in an attempt to stop English oppression. He is then raised by his uncle, who is a great warrior, and learns how to use the sword. After many years have passed, he returns to his boyhood village to raise a family and live a peaceful life as a farmer. But he soon finds that without freedom, no such dream of peace will ever be. Tragedy ensues and the epic struggle is set into motion.
The acting in this film is superbly done. Mel Gibson (who is probably more well known for his high-adrenaline action films such as the Mad Max and Lethal Weapon series), is good in the role of William Wallace. He shows a range of emotion and especially nails the more light-hearted comedic expressions. He is also a heart-stealing romancer, an aggressive and somewhat barbaric warrior, and a clever and compassionate leader. Patrick McGoohan plays a deliciously sinister King Edward Longshanks. His is probably the most captivating performance in this whole film, for there's something about the way he speaks that makes you unwillingly lean back in fear. Angus MacFadyen plays a torn and easily persuaded Robert the Bruce. His performance is nothing short of incredible, especially the scenes between him and his father. The dynamic between Robert and William is one of the characterization high-points of the film.
The battle sequences are excellent, and definitely one of the high points of the film. The battles are extremely large scale affairs with hundreds of extras clashing with each other on large fields. The editing and sound work so well in these sequences, they make the battles a complete experience that looks and sounds quite realistic. One of the best parts is the build up to the actual battle, the music (drums) and shots used for the charging armies before they clash always have me on the edge of my seat. I believe these are what makes Braveheart a complete and exciting experience.
Overall, this movie is a mainstay in epic war movies. I honestly believe it's a mainstay in modern cinema altogether. There's something about it that holds me spellbound every single time I watch it. Maybe it's the beautiful scenery, the beautiful score, the amazing cinematography, the superb acting, the riveting action, or all of these combined. All I know is that Braveheart has so much to offer it's hard to be disappointed.