Film Review: Braveheart

Runtime: 2 hr. 57 min.
Genre: Action & Adventure, Drama, Classics
Theatrical Release: May 26, 1995 Wide

Synopsis: In the late 13th century, William Wallace returns to Scotland after living away from his homeland for many years. The king of Scotland has died... In the late 13th century, William Wallace returns to Scotland after living away from his homeland for many years. The king of Scotland has died without an heir and the king of England, a ruthless pagan known as Edward the Longshanks, has seized the throne. Wallace becomes the leader of a ramshackle yet courageous army determined to vanquish the greater English forces. At the historic battle of Stirling, Wallace leads his army to a stunning victory against the English. Knighted by the grateful Scottish nobles, Sir William Wallace extends the conflict south of the border and storms the city of York. King Edward I is astonished by the unexpected turn of events. Unable to rely on his ineffectual son Prince Edward, Longshanks sends his daughter-in-law Princess Isabelle to discuss a truce with Wallace.

Starring: Mel Gibson, Sophie Marceau, Patrick McGoohan, Catherine McCormack
Director: Mel Gibson
Producer: Alan Ladd Jr , Mel Gibson
Studio: Paramount Pictures

Review
One of the weakest films to ever win the Best Picture Oscar, in a year that most handicappers predicted would see Ron Howard's "Apollo 13" taking the award.

Though released by Paramount in May, the Academy voters, notorious for their short memories, didn't forget the historical epic at Oscar time and honored it with ten nominations. The studio's heart was brave, entrusting star-director Mel Gibson with $35 million for his second feature.

There's plenty of action, romance, and blood in this thirteenth century tale of a Scottish hero who returns to his homeland after England's cruel king assumes power.

"Apollo 13" notwithstanding, it was not a particularly strong year. "Braveheart" competed against "Babe," the Italian entry, "Il Postino" ("The Postman") and Ang Lee's literary adaptation, "Sense and Sensibility."

Opening to mixed critical reviews, "Braveheart" is also one of the least commercial of Oscar winners, grossing only $75.6 million domestically, though internationally the movie was more popular, accounting for a worldwide box-office of $202.6 million.

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