Reviewed by Rama Gaind.
Director: Mel Gibson, 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment.
Cast: Mel Gibson, Sophie Marceau, Patrick McGoohan, Catherine McCormack.
The winner of five Academy Awards, Braveheart is a fascinating saga of passion and glory.
Mel Gibson (Mad Max, The Bounty, Gallipoli, Lethal Weapon) produced, directed, and starred in this epic 1995 historical drama. He won the Golden Globe Award and Academy Award for Best Director, along with the Academy Award for Best Picture.
Of the 10 nominations, the film also won Oscars for Best Cinematography, Best Makeup and Best Sound Editing.
Gibson plays legendary Scottish folk hero William Wallace, the medieval patriot who is spurred into revolt against the English when the love of his life is slaughtered. William wants nothing more than to start a family and build a life together with his true love Murron (McCormack). After Murron suffers a cruel fate his quest for revenge quickly turns into an impassioned fight for his country’s freedom.
Leading his army into battles that become a war, his advance into England threatens King Edward I’s throne before he is captured and executed, but not before becoming a symbol for a free Scotland.
The expansive film is based on a true story. The action takes place from 1267 till 1314. This was the time when Edward I conquered Wales and Scotland. He wanted Scotland to become a real part of England.
Braveheart captures both the picturesque tranquility and hopeless cruelty of 13th-century Scotland. Stirring music by James Horner and captivating cinematography by John Toll lend keenly to watching the film on 4K Ultra HD format, enhancing the viewing experience.
Not meant to be for the faint-hearted, the story is inspired by Blind Harry’s epic poem The Actes and Deidis of the Illustre and Vallyeant Campioun Schir William Wallace. It was adapted for the screen by Randall Wallace.
