The Patriot (Special Edition)

Title: A Captivating and Emotional Journey through Revolutionary Times "The Patriot" is an extraordinary film that takes viewers on a gripping and emotional journey through the American Revolution. Directed by Roland Emmerich and starring Mel Gibson, this historical epic showcases the sacrifices and struggles faced by a father and his family during one of the most significant periods in American history. Mel Gibson delivers a standout performance as Benjamin Martin, a widowed farmer who reluctantly becomes involved in the fight for independence after tragedy strikes his family. Gibson's portrayal is both intense and heartfelt, capturing the raw emotions of a man torn between protecting his loved ones and fighting for a cause he believes in. The film's attention to detail and accuracy in depicting the Revolutionary War is commendable. The battle scenes are realistically portrayed, showcasing the brutality and chaos of war. The cinematography is stunning, capturing the beauty of the American countryside as well as the horrors of conflict. The visual effects are impressive, especially during large-scale battle sequences, which add to the film's authenticity. The supporting cast is outstanding, with notable performances from Heath Ledger as Benjamin's eldest son, Gabriel, and Jason Isaacs as the ruthless British officer, Colonel Tavington. Their performances add depth and complexity to the narrative, creating memorable and well-rounded characters. What sets "The Patriot" apart from other war films is its exploration of the human cost of conflict. The movie delves into the personal sacrifices made by individuals on both sides of the war, highlighting the impact it has on families and communities. It portrays the moral ambiguity of war, showcasing the struggle between right and wrong, and the lengths people are willing to go for their beliefs. Furthermore, the film's emotional core lies in the themes of love, loyalty, and resilience. The bond between Benjamin and his children, particularly his daughter, is heartwarming and adds a layer of humanity to the story. The film also explores the complexities of loyalty and the difficult choices individuals face during times of war. While some historical inaccuracies have been pointed out by critics, it is important to remember that "The Patriot" is a work of fiction inspired by real events. It successfully captures the essence of the American Revolution and provides a thought-provoking and entertaining cinematic experience. In conclusion, "The Patriot" is an engrossing and poignant film that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. With its powerful performances, stunning visuals, and emotional storytelling, it is a must-watch for history buffs and fans of epic war dramas alike.

I was an admirer of The Patriot when I first saw it in the cinema -- but time has only reinforced the greatness of this film. I gave the Blu-ray extended cut a screening a few years ago, but the theatrical version (available on the 4k disc) is markedly superior (it is striking how much a few minutes of superfluous footage can slow a movie down). The theatrical cut is itself long, but flows extremely well, and ranks as one of the finest historic epics of all time. Mel Gibson's performance is one of his best, and rife with passion and stoic heroism. This picture was also a turning point in Gibson's career -- long the young, brash "leading man", Gibson's years were starting to show when he made this film, and this really informs the character of Benjamin Martin as a mature, ageing man, weathered by years (and the guilt of past misdeeds). Robert Rodat's script is outstanding -- better than his more-acclaimed Saving Private Ryan. The Patriot walks a fine line, managing to celebrate the struggle for, and triumph of, American independence -- without celebrating war itself. Indeed the film depicts the founding of America (and Martin's personal struggle) as hard-won, and strewn with sacrifice and loss. Jason Issacs is effectively despicable as the sadistic Colonel Tavington, yet his ruthlessness never strays outside the realm of believability (thank goodness Kevin Spacey's fee priced him out of this role!). A coterie of interesting supporting characters also populates the film -- in fact The Patriot has one of the best supporting casts ever. Not not a single one of them is uninteresting or superfluous, and they never once convolute or slow the narrative down. Caleb Deschanel's photography is a glory to behold -- and done full-justice in 4k. In fact this film looks better in its 4k transfer than it did in the theater. Deschanel bathes the film in a "period style" that looks and feels believable, but is also original in its use of lighting (as opposed to just cribbing the Barry Lyndon and Amadeus look, which most other period pieces have done). John Williams' score is a paragon of artistry, and one of his more unique efforts -- bursting with moments of soaring inspiration, but also elegiac introspection and tenderness, and nods to the music of the era. The Patriot truly is one of the finest and most moving pictures of recent decades, and film which is particularly relevant today -- when many in our culture have forgotten (or have not bothered to learn) why the United States is unique, and how its foundation changed the world (for the better).

Not true necessarily to history but a very entertaining movie. Enjoyed it years ago and today. I prefer DVD over streaming.

Far more accurate than people care to know--does not really matter as in the main the film is totally spot on. To win our Independence many died, others lost all they had in this world, but God Almighty looked after us and over us, gave us a remarkable General Washington who appears briefly in the film and the new world of the Declaration was born as the movie shows so well. And yes the French fleet was decisive at Yorktown helping greatly to end the war in Victory for the Patriots. I write this after watching this excellent film on July 4, 2026, the 250th year of Independence. V

great movie made even better in 4k and dolby atmos

Wow, the value of many language options is a real treat! Arrived on time, as promised, securely in my mailbox. Very pleased :)

Excellent historical film about the American Revolution,?which is also a story of revenge. The battle scenes are well directed, as are some intimate memories ments. Mel Gibson does a great job in the lead, even when some situations seem a bit far-fetched. The villain is really too much, and does things that historically did not happen. But the whole is far better than some individual parts. Recommended as a well done entertainment, but should not be seen as an accurate history lesson.

excellent movie not for young children due to the killing scenes

Excellent....vu plusieurs fois....grand acteur qu'est Mel Gibson j'adore

Très bon film

I am an American/British dual citizen and I cant say as I even marginally agree with the reviewers saying this film is thoroughly anti British, it may have an aspect of that but how many TV series have the English made which make the French look evil. How many films have the English AND Americans made about the Germans being evil? This film is made from an American point of view you cannot expect it to portray the British as the most wonderful people ever. In the film there is only one British man that is `evil' and the troops under his command kill innocent Americans under his orders and with objection. Mr Gibson is painting one man as evil not a nation so stop with your feeling hard done by and griping over nothing. Overall I think Mr Gibson makes the British look like a very noble nation through the gentlemanly actions of their high commander and other commanders, infact you could rightly argue that the British are overall portrayed as much more honorable than their American counterparts. I am especially baffled by the fact that a self proclaimed history lecturer is so narrow minded, I hope that if I ever have children you are not the one teaching them. I would have hoped that someone entrusted with teaching new generations about history would be more open to the fact that you can never KNOW for sure what happened. Finally to the omnipresent reviewer who said that s/he was sure the British had never burned a church. I am sure and couldn't agree more that in the many years of the British Empire nobody innocent was hurt and that no rogue commanders ever ordered their men to slaughter innocent people (that was sarcasm the British have and had just as much capacity for being evil as the Americans, Germans, French and Mel Gibson). These reviewers are however right in regards to the fact that the black people portrayed in this film do seem very unrealistic when compared with historical accounts of what it was to be black in those times. They are all treated well and all seem really happy with life, doubtless a few of them were but I do find it very strange that there was only once that one was mistreated. I personally think that this movie is brilliant. There are a couple of points where the American pride is cringe worthy but it wouldn't be a classic Mel film if there wasn't. Trust me when I say this is a great film and unless you are super uptight you will not be offended. Take a step back and enjoy it, this is a fictional movie and it never claims to be based solidly on fact. If you are British watch this brilliant movie, get past some of the laughable Americana like Mel running with the flag at the end and see if the British really are portrayed badly. If you feel they are then give me a negative review though to be honest I doubt very much that you will. The people writing that this film is anti-British are the exact type that probably watch movies on how the British defeated the `evil' Napoleon and think it is wonderful. Thank you for your time for reading my longest ever review and enjoy.

The Patriot 4K Steelbook was a game changer. I already had the Patriot on 4K in my personal collection but the Steelbook with its upgrade of Dolby Atmos was worth trading up. This movie is a great epic and ranks right up there with Troy and Gladiator with all the battle scenes and storyline. Great movie, worth adding to your personal collection.

Topp