A CHARTER MEMBER OF MY WORST FILMS LIST!!
If it weren't for some tiresome, transparent Hollywood devices, this would be a pretty decent film. Here's a scintillating glimpse:
(1) Benjamin Martin (Mel Gibson) must exorcise demons from his past.
(2) The rebellious, idealistic eldest son finds a tattered American Flag and repairs it.
(3) An evil, heartless, renegade British Colonel mockingly creates conflict.
(4) The aforementioned British Colonel, by all appearances, is killed by the aforementioned eldest son, but springs to life just in time to kill the son.
(5) A bigoted freedom fighter grows to respect a slave freedom fighter.
Had enough yet? Here are some more forgettable scenes:
(6) When the eldest son dies, Martin decides that he's seen enough killing for one lifetime and quits. However, he finds the tattered flag that his beloved son had so painstakingly repaired. Martin's spirit and resolve are, once again, buoyed. He quickly rejoins with his mount, but the cinematography shows the flag gradually appear above the field grasses on the horizon. The inspirational scene causes the troops to rejoice-complete with "HUZZAHS." (GAG!!!)
(7) Another of Martin's sons has a collection of toy soldiers forged from lead. This son is also killed. Martin takes the collection of toy soldiers and melts them to form musket balls.
(8) The movie ends with grateful soldiers rebuilding Martin's house. (COME ON!!!)
Unfortunately, this crap really takes away from some wonderful acting performances. |
