William Wallace really WAS seven feet tall!

Rating: 10/10 (23 March 2000)

Where does one begin? "Braveheart" is a unique blend of masterful performances and superb directing. Mel Gibson has proven his brilliance both on and off the screen.
Being a student of history, I am always interested in historically-based films, and "Braveheart," while not the most historically accurate of tales, is near the top of the list. The battle scenes are brutally realistic and the love story between Wallace and Murron is among cinema's most compelling.
Horner's score matches the mood perfectly, and the photography of the Scottish landscapes are amazing. All the elements of an excellent film are here.
By the way, if you find amusement in the bit where one of the Scots asserts that the real William Wallace is seven feet tall, you may be interested to know that the real William Wallace actually was seven feet tall. Indeed, this is a clever film.
Overall, I consider this an outstanding example of modern cinema. Great acting, great shots, and a great message: "Freedom!"