Oscar worthy, but not the greatest!

Rating: 9/10 (8 December 1999)

"Braveheart" is a very impressive war epic, especially since it was directed by Mel Gibson. Before the movie won any oscars, I had no idea that Gibson was capable of such filmmaking. Here, he effectively recreates a legendary story of Scotland's battle for freedom from England.
This three hour picture focuses on the life of William Wallace (Mel Gibson) and his courageous attempts to lead Scotland to victory in the 13th century. A peaceful man by nature, Wallace is driven toward violence after his beloved wife is executed by English soldiers. Having lost his father earlier to the English as well, he is no longer capable of standing aside and allowing the enemy to rule his life. As he coldly and vengefully kills the men responsible for his wife's death, he begins a revolution. Brave men are quick to help him in this battle and desire more. Wallace, unsure of his goals, is eventually persuaded by his men to continue even further. He accepts the role of leader as a classic quest for freedom unfolds.
The cinematography in "Braveheart" is excellent, especially during the battle scenes. Some of the most energetic and quite graphic sequences occur during the fighting. Gibson plays Wallace very well. The hero vows never to give up, and often when it appears that all odds are against him, he still manages to overcome them in some way. Cold and determined, Wallace still remains a good person. He will not accept defeat nor will he accept compromise. Along the way he meets the unhappy wife of King Edward's son. Princess Isabelle is played by Sophie Marceau, who I really like and respect now after also seeing her terrific performance in "The World is Not Enough." They find beauty in each other and Isabelle is inclined to aid Wallace in his battle.
The acting is superb and the film is very well made. Wallace's heroic will and his endless efforts are evident in Gibson's performance. The story is smart and well written, and the entire outcome is not too obvious. The film could have been even better if a couple of scenes were omitted. For example, during battle, the Scottish raise their kilts one time too many in order to flash the English army. An unnecessary shot of one Scot getting his rear hit with an arrow follows. Also, this film is yet another war epic in a long list fine war movies. It seems that those types of films are too safe and too easy to make. No one will ever hate them. While "Braveheart" is probably not better than "Platoon" or "Saving Private Ryan" it is right up there with them. Aside from a couple of sequences I would have liked to see edited out, this movie is terrific. The cinematography creates a story world where there is very little not to like. This movie deserved the oscar it received. Overall a 9 out of 10.