An Amazing Movie, Depicting Accurately America's Proudest Moment

Rating: 6/10 (3 January 2001)

What the heck are all of you people talking about when you say that this movie isn't accurate! It is by far more accurate than some I have seen. First, let me say that I'm an avid fan of Braveheart and I believe that The Patriot ranks right up there with it. The story is wonderful. It keeps you on the edge of your seat not knowing what is going to happen around the corner. I'm also one of those who believes that great special effects are not the only key in a good movie, but with The Patriot I was in awe.
Now, it's my opinion that The Patriot was very accurate. First of all, for all of you saying how cruel the British were, Col. Tavington was about the only one. All other depictions of the British, such as that of General Cornwallis, made them out to be good men only striving to be gentlemen and follow the rules of war. Cornwallis even chastises Tavington many times for his cruelty. Along with this point, I don't think the Americans were seen as "god-like" by any means. Yes, they were seen as idealistic and good-hearted in many cases, but Benjamin Martin (Gibson) was fighting with his utter cruelty during the French and Indian War throughout the entire movie.

As for the accuracy, the clothing, sets, language, and characters of this movie definately came close to perfectly matching those of American History. For example, while some the characters of the actual movie are not historical, most are based on men who did live. Mel Gibson's character is made up of many men who lived during the Revolution, including the "Swamp Fox". And for all of you who say Jason Isaac's character was depicted as too cruel, he was based on a historical British officer.
Now, I do agree that Mel Gibson's role in this movie was very much like his role as William Wallace in Braveheart, but he unfortunately, he is one of the best men in Hollywood to play the role. And for those who might say he shouldn't have played the role because he is Australian, Mel Gibson was born in New York. He didn't move to Australia until he was eleven. You might want to check your accuracy before you make that comment.