And now for something not historical...

Rating: 9/10 (5 September 2007)

"The Patriot" allows Mel Gibson to portray a character very similar to his fictitious version of William Wallace from "Braveheart" (1995). Rather than the medieval Scottish highlands, the action this time takes place in America during the American Revolution. Mel Gibson's character, Benjamin Martin, is similar to Wallace in being motivated to fight the English after a personal loss and lead a ragtag group of soldiers.
"The Patriot" boasts great sets, shots and costumes supported by an impeccable score from John Williams. The only point against the film's cinematography is an exaggerated use of slow motion shots. As with "Braveheart" (1995), the story of this film cannot by any means be taken as history. The film exaggerates the virtues of the continental army and the atrocities committed by the British. If you can get past that, it's possible to enjoy this film. The story follows a good pace and the action scenes are excellent and well-staged, even if some of them are over-the-top. "Braveheart" (1995) exceeds "The Patriot" for interesting story developments and characterization, but "The Patriot" is still solid.
Mel Gibson essentially reprises his role with William Wallace and does it with the same energy for another good performance. The members of Benjamin Martin's family are all well-played and as is Charlotte, the sister of Benjamin's dead wife. Jason Isaacs plays Colonel Tavington with smugness and audacity that would later be seen again in Lucius Malfoy of the "Harry Potter" films and creates a great villain. Also on the British side was Tom Wilkinson, who was enjoyable to see as the gentlemanly and proud General Cornwallis. On the revolutionary side, the supporting cast was decent. Particularly notable was Tchéky Karyo as France's representative and Rene Auberjonois of "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine" fame as the preacher. With this cast and its story, "The Patriot" is an entertaining, though not historically accurate film in the spirit of "Braveheart" (1995).