Better than Gladiator AND Braveheart

Rating: Null/10 (20 July 2000)

The Patriot is, quite simply, one of the very best movies I've ever seen. The "flow" of the whole movie was simply superb. I really felt like I was living through Benjamin Martin's journey myself (and I'm an Aussie!). This was, of course, helped by a tight, well-balanced script. I never got the feeling that it was just another action movie (even though there were many bloody battle scenes), nor the feeling that the movie was "bloated" (even though it's almost 3 hours long!).
Every single character had remarkable depth to them and was portrayed superbly. IMHO,the whole cast quite brilliant. Gibson was unbelievable as usual. This is the first time I've seen Ledger act--and how he can act! His performance (and Gibson's) definitely warrants an oscar. And Jason Isaacs portrayal of a murdering British soldier is one of the best portrayals of a bad guy I've ever seen. All the supporting cast was fine too, including Martin's children, his sister-in-law and Gabriel's wife.
As for the visuals, I really felt like I was a soldier in the revolution. They swept you away and didn't put you back... The Patriot should be awarded Best Picture. As far as historical dramas go, it's up there with Ben Hur. As far as a good movie goes, I easily got double my money's worth (A$10.00)...see it!