The Patriot (2000) is a film that more people need to see. This movie depicts the Revolutionary War which is somewhat rare in our modern war movies. We see multitudes of WW2, Vietnam, and even some WW1 films. Something that is responsible for our country's founding needs more love. Read here for our spoiler-free review!
We see our protagonist from South Carolina attempting to stay neutral in the deadly war. However, he is thrust into the thick of it after a devastating loss, and the militia must help the continental army fight off the British.
Mel Gibson plays Benjamin Martin who is our lead. He does an outstanding job as a man who seeks revenge, feels love, and is a father at the same time protecting his loved ones. It truly is a great performance. Another fantastic one comes from Heath Ledger. He is another compelling performance especially with his love story with actress Lisa Brenner. Many other side actors and actresses are also excellent including Jason Isaacs as the antagonist Colonel Tavington. This character is based on a real British officer who was ruthless in his tactics to defeat the Americans.
Unlike some critics say of this film, it does not depict all the English military as killers but this one man in particular. His group of men followed all of the orders even though they may seem cruel and unusual. Other British characters like General Cornwallis acted more like a gentleman. The militiamen themselves were not saints in the movie. They do a couple of horrific things that Heath Ledger's character is appalled about. Also, this movie is not for the faint of heart. It's bloody and gory just like how the real war was. It doesn't hold much back as this script takes many risks a lot of films would not.
Other parts of the film I enjoy include the sound mixing (Oscar-nominated). The canon and musket fire sound is exceptionally jumbled with everything else happening at the same time. Also, the score (Oscar-nominated) is fantastic from John Williams. As many times as he has won as a composer, this one did not, and it is one of his best in my opinion. Next, the cinematography (also Oscar-nominated) is fantastic. One of the best shots involves Mel Gibson charging the British soldiers holding the American flag. To me, it will always be iconic. Also, I went ax throwing with my girlfriend and couldn't help but think of the iconic scene with Gibson in the forest. Watch it to see what I mean!
Personally, I do not have any problems with this movie.
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