An excellent movie with a flawed viewership

Rating: Null/10 (9 March 2003)

I really liked The Patriot but I could see at least four serious problems with it: it expressed American patriotism and love of country; it had a character that was God-fearing and devout; it featured an actor that is both patriotic and devout; and it played to a generation that is largely without love of America (even if American) and which prefers not to be reminded of the possibility that there exists things greater than oneself: God, country, and duty. You are free to choose any one or all three over which to take offense. Viewers who enjoyed this film are likely to know what I am talking about. I did not watch this movie hoping for a history lesson. I watched because it promised two things: a patriot and Mel Gibson. It delivered well on both. It did not glorify war but it did glorify those who did their duty and fought in war, as is only fair. I believe I will give it as a gift to my World War II-era mother who will enjoy the film's message.