Summer has arrived...

Rating: Null/10 (28 June 2000)

After all, what would summer be without blockbuster action movies. We've grown accustomed to it, and "The Patriot" fulfills all expectations of the genre: war, carnage, brief romance, and an underdog fighting against insurmoutable odds. Is it a totally realistic depiction of the Revolutionary War? I should hope not, but does it fulfill the summer requirment of being entertaining? I think so. Mel Gibson glibbly and reliably portrays the tormented hero, Heath Ledger gives voice to his eldest son(both having a relationship not unlike that between a master and his pupil as Gibson's Benjamin Martin teaches his son the likes of guerilla warfare), and Jason Issacs has the part of the deliciously wicked Colonel Tavington--commander of the redcoats. Tavington is a cliched villain, it's true, but I think that's a good thing because there is never any doubt that he is evil. In many films, the villain is often portrayed in a semi-heroic light forcing the audience to make a choice between who to root for, but like in all other summer action fair, the choice is simple: evil aliens or humanity? monstrous dinosaurs or amusement park goers? genetically engineered sharks or helpless victims? One shouldn't scrutinize the story, the characters, or their actions too closely--scholastic accuracy was not the point, mindless entertainment was. It's just been moved into a new historic period is all. Truly the best thing about "The Patriot" is Tom Wilkinson's performance as the aristocratic General Lord Cornwallis. He alone almost makes one sorry that the British lost the war. If you're looking for a great way to spend 158 minutes, some good action, a cast of delightful actors, and some good old fun then catch "The Patriot." It's worth the $8.00. And just think of what it would be like if you caught the matinee? On the otherhand, if you're looking for a history lesson, then I'd turn on the History Channel and fasten my seatbelt for a grueling ride.