Braveheart

Can you believe it’s been twenty-five years since this masterpiece hit the big screen literally screaming and yelling…ARGH? Bloody, bold and well, brave are just three ways to start this review. Mel Gibson is iconic.  Whether you love him or hate him, he remains bigger than life. Slightly less than full-blown crazy, the man is bloody brilliant!  Nothing short of, never will be. He’s had his issues in life and in Hollywood but he can never be counted out or underestimated. His talent is legendary, and his work is always jaw-dropping.

I’m sorry if I seem to be gushing. When I read that it was anniversary time for Braveheart I decided it was time to take another look. Yes, I had forgotten, almost, how bloody, for real it was. Even viewing this slice of history is a feat in itself. It’s not short. If I told you exactly how long it is you might decide not to watch it, so, I just won’t do that. I want you to find it and watch it again. Gibson is not only the star, he is the producer and director of Braveheart (I did mention he was brilliant). It was not only nominated, but walked away with five, yes, five Academy Awards. Not bad for a virtual one-man show!  The Academy bestowed Best Picture, Best Director, Best Cinematography, Best Sound Editing, and last but not least, Best Make-up and Hairstyling. You know Mel and his long flowing locks.  Oh, by the way, there were another five nominations in other categories. That was just the Oscars; he probably had to put another set of shelving in his den.

William Wallace is the medieval Scottish patriot who is spurred into revolt against the English when the love of his life is slaughtered. When he was a wee lad his father and brother were killed by the same regime, leaving him to be raised by an uncle away from his beloved homeland. He had returned home looking for a peaceful place to marry and raise a family to once again come face to face with the cruelty of the times. The killing of his beloved Murron had him vowing to free Scotland from the tyranny of the English. Leading his army into battles that become a war, his advance into England threatens King Edward I’s throne. The passionate and fierce Braveheart becomes the symbol of a free Scotland.

I believe that there are some movies that just cry out to be seen on the biggest possible screen. Braveheart is one of those. Fathom Events brings classic movies to the theaters, and a truly big screen, not just your 50 incher at home. If you’re a true movie lover or just crave a little something different than the normal faire that comes to our theaters, may I suggest you subscribe to the free notices sent out by Fathom Events?  Courtesy of Fathom Events, Braveheart is coming back to the theater soon as well as Gladiator, another big screen film. They also bring back classics; from Sound of Music to Lawrence of Arabia. You won’t be sorry and you might even find some bring-backs that earned their box office without foul language and immorality. Having said that, Braveheart is not for the faint of heart. A great history lesson for adults and teens, probably not so wonderful for younger children. As always I enjoy your feedback at Carolyn@carolynhastings.com.