Medieval Scotland was scattered, politically. Clans warred among themselves and England, ruled by Edward I, aka “Longshanks” (Patrick McGoohan), took advantage of the turmoil. The country couldn’t call itself free. Then one man, William Wallace (Mel Gibson), suffered the loss of his wife (Catherine McCormack) at the hands of the English and led an intelligent revolt for Scotland’s independence. Fierce battles with England and political machinations inside Scotland ensue, but he fights determinedly. He wouldn’t live to see his country’s liberty actually accomplished.

CRITIQUE

Historical war epics are such a staple of blockbuster filmmaking now that they’ve almost gone out of favor now. There are strengths about this genre that will always keep it part of the fabric of filmmaking. The graphically violent and visually beautiful combination in these films is something that viewers really first saw in this film. Elegant and exciting both in visuals and story, Braveheart is truly epic and satisfying to watch.

One of the tropes of the historical war epic that has evolved is the use of visceral violence in the battle sequences, and this pretty much began with what Gibson does here as a director. Bloody, complexly choreographed combat is a centerpiece of this film. Something that Wallace’s script does is present plenty of balance for that. The earliest and the latter part of the film provide romance as the counterpoint, which is a particular favorite of mine. Sweet and sexy at the same time, Wallace’s interactions with the wife he loses and the new English princess from France are shot with a dreamy beauty. Believe it or not, this meshes extraordinarily well with the battle scenes because of the elegance with which the shots are accomplished. Cinematographer John Toll takes full advantage of the beautiful Scottish landscape and the work of the production and costume designers is exceptional.

The middle of the film has as its balance the interaction between Wallace and the man who would later rule Scotland, Robert the Bruce. Played excellently by Angus Macfadyen, this character narrates the film, and I think this is because Bruce takes over where Wallace’s death leaves off. He does unite the country. What’s amazing about this character is that his struggle between wanting what Wallace wants and recognizing that the compromise needed to accomplish it will mean betrayal.

Aside from Bruce, another character who remains in the memory long after the film is over is Stephen the Irishman, played hilariously by David O’Hara. Patrick McGoohan is stunningly menacing as Longshanks and Harry Potter fans will recognize the endearing Brendan Gleeson as Mad Eye Moody. Mel Gibson is the star here, though, and he is in full command of a led performance, complete with an authentic Scotch brogue. Braveheart is entertaining and memorable, both because of the performances and the look of the film but also because of its engaging story.

THE VIDEO

Widescreen is perfect for the type of film this is. The historical epic has a scope that needs this format. The transfer is also free of picture or color problems.

THE AUDIO

The sound of this film is exceptional and Dolby Digital 5.1 surround captures it well. There is also the same format for the French language track, and a Spanish track in 2.0 surround. Also offered are English, French, and Spanish subtitles.

THE EXTRAS

Audio Commentary with Mel Gibson: Here he gives a solo track and it is fairly good. There are bits of silence throughout, but mostly some good information. We learn, for instance, that the scene where O’Hara’s character is established as Wallace’s staunch protector was made up on the fly to stand in for a longer scene that no one had the energy to complete. A lot of Gibson’s focus is on the obstacles overcome but he also points out nice work by people like the editor and production designer. Viewers should take a listen to this track.

A Writer’s Journey:  Randall Wallace, the screenwriter, discusses writing the film in this in-depth doc. At around 20 minutes long, there is a lot of information here. Wallace is articulate about the path his mind traveled as he was writing to form some of the most memorable moments of the film. The one I like best involves the flower William Wallace keeps and returns to the girl he knew as a boy. Wallace is also upfront about the fact that historical accuracy is not a major concern of his as he writes. Though clearly an older documentary, this is a great addition.

‘Alba gu Brath!’ The Making of Braveheart: This is a new documentary covering the making of this film. A new interview with Gibson plays along with plenty of on-set footage and footage shot in the editing room back in 1995. In all his foul-mouthed glory, Gibson takes us through the making of his epic. The problems, the praise for his co-workers- it’s all good to watch. I think it’s cool, for instance, that all the extras were drawn from actual military ranks so the discipline showed onscreen.

Tales of William Wallace: The historical impact of William Wallace is the focus of this long, excellent extra. Interviews with the cast, writer, and others involved with the film are accompanied by voice-over discussing the path Wallace took from rebel against the English to martyr. Robert the Bruce is discussed a little as well. My favorite part is the end, detailing an example of the freedom Scotland exercises today.

Interviews: Many cast members aside from Gibson were interviewed on-set and they are collected here. These are mainly good, just about the characters each actor plays, and fun to watch. I particularly like O’Hara and Mcfadyen’s interviews.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Braveheart has strength behind every frame of the visuals and word of the story. It is epic both in content and presentation, in large part to the talents of Gibson in front of and behind the camera. Those who don’t yet own the film on DVD will want to buy, not rent this two-disc set. The special features available here also provide ample incentive to buy.