worth watching but not completely convincing

Rating: Null/10 (17 January 2007)

Gripping, well-acted story set in the 1770s about a peaceful American farmer and widower of seven children who's a hero of the French and Indian War, but troubled by the memory of his actions and fearful that one day they'll come back to haunt him. When the Revolutionary War begins, he's reluctant to take part in it but soon circumstances—specifically his eldest son's enlistment—force him to join in the fight for independence. Unavoidably reminiscent of Braveheart the film holds your attention with its vivid set design and intense battle scenes, though it feels more like a one-man quest for vengeance rather than a historical drama. Highly watchable, but requires a certain suspension of disbelief. ***