Movie Review: Braveheart

A cinematic masterpiece of epic proportions, Mel Gibson's Braveheart easily competes with the classic historical epics of cinema including Ben-Hur and Spartacus, as well as recent blockbusters such as Gladiator. It is a film that encompasses all of the finest methods of filmmaking, and never fails to present a passionate and powerful story above its other movie-making feats. Awe-inspiring, brutal and action-packed, Braveheart makes no mistakes in its storytelling process and includes some of the most memorable and adrenaline-rushing sequences in recent memory.

In 1280 Scotland, young William Wallace learns the hardships of life as reining King Edward the Longshanks claims the Scottish throne for himself and lays down a strict and merciless rule. When a group of noblemen go to negotiate with the local lords, they are slaughtered by order of the king, and William's father dies in the ensuing fight. Wallace (Mel Gibson) leaves for a time to study in neighboring countries and to gain skills in fighting, even though he hopes to come home to raise a family and crops. Upon his return, he secretly marries his childhood sweetheart Murron (Catherine McCormack); secrecy is needed due to the king's reinstatement of Prima Nocta, a law that allows the lord of the land to spend the first night with every newlywed bride. When Murron is attacked by English soldiers, Wallace assaults them, which leads to his wife being slain by the governing magistrate. In a fit of rage and revenge, he overthrows the English soldiers in his village, kills the magistrate, and begins gathering troops to take back control of Scotland.

It comes as a shock to me that Mel Gibson wasn't even nominated for an Oscar for his portrayal of William Wallace, which is a fantastic role, adding elements of Mad Max and Martin Riggs peeking through the believable Scottish accent. All of the roles are well developed and enjoyable, from the miserly King Edward to madman Stephen to Angus Macfadyen's Robert the Bruce. Powerful performances all around boost the epic feel and thrilling action in this historical tale of bravery and courage.