I'm so glad I saw this movie!

Rating: Null/10 (10 August 2000)

It took me a while, but I finally got to this movie. I'd had a very unfavorable reaction to Saving Private Ryan and I was a bit cautious about seeing another war-oriented movie, especially one I had heard was true to the nature of its content. By coincidence one afternoon I was at the theater without a movie in mind and on a whim decided on this one. I am so glad I did!!! This movie has to be one of the best movies I've ever seen.
After a string of Mission to Mars-like letdowns I was once again reminded just what it is about movies that I love so much. If movie-making is an art, this one is a masterpiece. The story, acting, cinematography, and casting are all magnificent. Mel Gibson gives a stunning performance as a father forced to go to war during the American Revolution. I've heard people say it was "just like Braveheart", but I disagree. Without the added responsibilities of producing and directing, Mr. Gibson was free to concentrate on acting his part, and he did a job beyond expectations. Skye McCole Bartuziak also gave a very moving (and impressive) performance as Martin's (Gibson) youngest daughter traumatized by the losses she'd endured.
All in all, there wasn't anything about this movie that was bad. It was refreshing to see a movie so well made that didn't fear to include God as a positive influence to the characters, as is so often true in many of our lives. It is not for children, but it is a movie I hope all will see eventually.