Review of The Patriot (2000) by Timothy S — 01 Jan 2011

No one has ever accused director Roland Emmerich of being historically accurate, especially after he made the ludicrous "10,000 B.C.". Hell, most people wouldn't even accuse him of being a good director, but "The Patriot" is one of his better efforts. It may not ever be shown in high school history classes, but it gets the basics right and more importantly, it tells a good story that entertains. The film is long but never boring, and the villains are cartoonish and over-the-top, which only adds to the fun. Jason Isaacs really makes a name for himself here as a completely despicable bad guy, and the film almost plays like a typical revenge picture. I can hear the pitch now..."It's 'Deathwish' meets 'Glory'.".

It has similarities to Mel Gibson's Oscar winner "Braveheart", but it lacks that film's depth and realism. Still, Gibson is very good here playing a character he's played before but he makes it work once again. Also good is Heath Ledger as his eldest son showing the natural charisma that would make him a star.

Cinematographer Caleb Deschanel tried his hand at directing (see, or better yet, don't "Crusoe"), but he returned to what he does best and he's in fine form here. This is a beautifully photographed film, and despite the modern violence, it feels decidedly old-fashioned. You have to admire what Emmerich has tried to do, and the shocking thing is that he's mostly successful at it. The entire cast is at the top of their game and they carry this entertaining epic a long way. You won't learn anything from "The Patriot", but there are worst ways to kill three hours.

It's a great-looking popcorn movie. Just don't try fact-checking it.