A MOVIE EVERY REVOLUTIONARY WAR STUDENT SHOULD SEE

Rating: 9/10 (8 November 2002)

I didn't expect much when I first watched this movie. I really didn't think a movie set in Revolutionary times would be that entertaining. I left the theatre impressed. The producers obviously put much time and effort into costume design and script detail. Mel Gibson is great, and this was the first I had seen Heath Ledger, who was excellent as Gibson's son. Jason Isaacs is heinous as the British commander. He brought out feelings of anger, which must mean he did a great job. I'm not sure the British were as brutal as portrayed in the movie, but this is a war movie, albeit, Revolutionary War times. Tom Wilkenson is perfect as General Cornwallis, and the supporting cast added to the movie's quality. Every young student studying the early history of America would benefit from watching "The Patriot". It would bring the pages of the history books alive. The battle scenes were gripping and harsh, contrasted by the gentle country side views. I am still amazed how a young, upstart nation defeated a force like Great Britain. Of course, the red coats in file formation made great targets. That had to be a great sight to see for the American sharp shooter, as was this movie for me.