Inspiring if historically inaccurate epic

Rating: 9/10 (7 December 2000)

being an Englishman I was slightly wary of the negative view of my fellow English in this 'war of independence' saga. However, although the English are portrayed as arrogant and aggressive oppressors, the film itself is a visual delight with strong characters that transcend the inaccuracies of English involvement in the New World.
I thought Gibson was reasonable but it was really the staged battles that won it for me.The energy that is uniquely American came across vividly in this film which should have won more awards than it did.
Well done Hollywood- you turned what could have been a very 'bloody'and 'serious' film into an enjoyable journey into the birth of America.