The Patriot

Starring: Mel Gibson, Heath Ledger

R: R

What a movie the Patriot is for the 4th of July. The Patriot hit the big screen just in time for the patriot holiday. With good acting and a great story the Patriot is a movie to be reckoned with, with it's perfect cast it makes it hard to beat.
Although I would hate to tell you anything about this film, besides to go watch it, I have to say that the Patriot is for men and women alike. It has it's blood and guts side to it, but it also has a caring, compassionate, and very many sad side, that will leave most in a theater with tears in their eyes. Mel Gibson plays farmer, father, and former soldier, Benjamin Martin, who has a dark past and much to care for. With 7 children to care for he is torn between caring for his not yet formed country, or for his family.
In steps Ben Martin's oldest, and extremely head strong, son, Gabriel, played by Australian Heath Ledger. Gabriel goes off to fight against the British In spite of his fathers wish's.
From there the story really begins and I cannot bring myself to tell you any more. The Patriot, like Gladiator, will be considered an epic, with it's 150 minute showing time and it's story. It also shows some fantastic cinematography.
If you are go to see this movie, do not expect everything to turn out with a storybook ending, the Patriot holds fast to the realistic view of war and life. I did find it a very sad film and many might not appreciate all the felt sorrows that you are left with when you leave the theater. Overall, the Patriot is a fantastic movie which needs to be seen by all, and a keeper for my movie collection.

Grade:

Andrew