The Patriot
Starring: Mel Gibson, Heath Ledger, Joely Richardson, Jason Isaacs, Chris Cooper, Tcheky Karyo, Rene Auberjonois, Tom Wilkinson
Directed by: Roland Emmerich
Rating: R
Genre: Historical, Drama
2000
Times Seen:
Tim: 3
Summary: The Martin family is torn apart by the American Revolution. Benjamin Martin (Mel Gibson), a hero of the French and Indian War, does not wish to go to war again, choosing rather to stay with his family. His idealistic son, Gabriel (Heath Ledger) decides to take part in the war, creating tension within the family. When the war comes too close to home, Benjamin decides he must take up arms against the British to protect his family… and help protect the freedom of a new, young nation.
Review:
Tim: The Patriot is a powerful, moving, action-filled movie. The film is beautiful to look at as the scenes from the American Revolution are incredibly realistic. The story is very moving. You will fall in love with the characters, and when they lose a loved one, you almost feel like you do, too; when they shed blood on the battlefield, you feel the wound. This is a testament to Roland Emmerich's direction, as well as the entire cast.
Mel Gibson gives a powerful performance as Benjamin Martin. Gibson has had so many successful movies, and this ranks near the top. As an actor, I hold a high respect for him, and in this film, he proves that he deserves that respect. Gibson continues his heroic battle-scene performances, following the tradition of his incredible performance in Braveheart. Perhaps the most pleasant surprise in the film is the performance of Heath Ledger. I really, really enjoy the work of this kid. He was wonderful in 10 Things I Hate About You, and he proves in this film that he can carry even larger roles in movies. While Gibson does take the load of the acting in this film, Ledger gives an outstanding supporting role, breathing life into the character of Gabriel Martin. While watching this film, I advise you to take a close look at this young man- if he continues on the path he currently is on, he will continue to make amazing movies, and mark my words- he will be around for a long time.
The Patriot is a very complete movie. Viewers will be entertained, have amazing glimpses into the history of America, and most importantly in my eyes: gain some added pride and patriotism for this country. This film represents one of my favorite types of films: ones that entertain you, but also invoke feelings of patriotism that make you want to stand up and scream, "Yes I am an American, and I am proud of it!" This film will do just that for you, in the context of visually stunning battles between the Americans and the British. If you have not seen this movie yet, then you must go out soon and rent it, because you are missing out.
I am a HUGE fan of Roland Emmerich and Dean Devlin, the duo that brought one of the greatest movies ever (in my humble opinion, of course), Independence Day. ID4 shares the similar mark of a masterpiece by inspiring pride in America, and making you proud to be an American. Emmerich and Devlin continue that amazing aspect to their films with this American History masterpiece.
It is important to note that the R rating is serious for this film. Some of the battle scenes are gruesome, and younger viewers should be shielded from such horror (which is ironic, because part of the film deals with the loss of innocence of Martin's children because of the war). Regardless, the film does contain some vivid effects of battle. Also, I want to urge you all to watch for the first scene that Benjamin Martin fights the British army. Without revealing anything about the film, I just want you to pay close attention to all the details: while it occurs in the early stages of the film, it is the best scene in the movie, and certainly the most memorable. Go this see this movie- you will not be disappointed but rather, blown away.
Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 8.5
If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: Pearl Harbor, Titanic, Independence Day, A Knight's Tale, Braveheart, The Day After Tomorrow