Reviews (970)

Best movie ever by far
This film breaks the ceiling of amazon.com's five star limit. Regardless of your religion, loyalties, or personal beliefs, to remain unmoved by this film means you're Satan himself.

The film revolves around the last 12 hours of Jesus Christ's life on Earth. As a viewer who's actually read the New Testament before laying judgement on the film's accuracy, I'd say there was extremely little deviation from the original Gospels. The film is an overwhelmingly emotional roller coaster ride beginning at Jesus' mock trial under Pontius Pilate to His crucifixion and resurrection. The fact that the entire script was spoken in Aramaic and Latin lends credit to director Mel Gibson's seriousness in portraying the events as accurately as possible.

The film was violent and bloody, but no more than the average reel spewing forth from Hollywood nowadays, none of which receive so much as a blink for their levels of gratuitous violence. But then again, none of those films promote Christianity. Hmm....

The film was no more anti-Semetic than "Schindler's List" was anti-German or "Seven Years in Tibet" was anti-Chinese. This film simply portrayed events as we know them historically. The Jewish high priests happened to be one group of people who wanted Jesus dead. The Romans and Pharisees were the true villians of the movie, nor was Jesus spared betrayal by even his own Apostles. The movie does, on the other hand, show two Jewish high priests defending Jesus' innocence at his trial, and it shows Simon being mocked by a Roman guard for being Jewish. These two events I do not recall reading in the New Testament, lending creedence to Mel Gibson's effort to make the film NOT anti-Semetic. The high priests condemned Jesus to death, but it was the Roman guards who took true sadistic pleasure in His suffering.

The violence and bloodshed served a purpose. It was to show what Jesus went through, the amount of pain He suffered, for mankind. Reading it in a few Biblical passages is one thing, viewing it on the big screen for two hours straight puts a different perspective on it. The entire movie intertwined scenes of Christ's suffering with scenes of Him earlier in time giving sermons on love and forgiveness. This served to cement the fact that Jesus did not just practice what He preached. The most emotional scene was probably when Jesus was being nailed to the cross, the whole time praying for God to forgive His persecutors.

I've seen the film three times since it premiered five days ago, and I plan to see it many more times before it comes out on DVD. To warn you, the film makes you feel about an inch tall, but it is a much needed reminder of just what sacrifices were made by Him on our behalf. The closing scene was my favorite, and I hope you watch to see what it is. Amen and Hallelujah!

Deeply moving cinema with epic feel
Assuming you know the story (and one hopes most of us do) I felt you had to be neither religiously inclined, or interested in historical theology to take a lot away with you after seeing this picture. Heavily criticized for it's brutal depiction of the last 12 hours of the life of Christ, and maligned by some for encouraging anti semetism, I found it powerful and very moving, if disturbing. It is a testament to Mel Gibson's vision, and perseverance that NO major Hollywood studio picked up this picture, which was self funded by Mr Gibson at a cost of around $30 million. The fact that the dialogue is chiefly aramaic (the movie is subtitled throughout) could also be seen as enough to discourage a lot of viewers, but there is no doubt that this is powerful film making at it's best. Perhaps "enjoy" is the wrong word to use in how I felt after the movie which is violent and unforgiving in showing Christ's persecution and eventual execution on the cross, but it is compelling, absorbing and emotionally charged. The success of the picture (I feel) lies in the what has been the chief subject of critisicm, the blow by blow punishment and torture the viewer cannot help but share with the main character. However, perhaps this is the strength of the movie, and I believe Gibson's aim, in showing what has always been hinted at, or happened "off screen" in other films of the genre. Put simply, it is saying that knowing or saying that Christ suffered and died for our sins is not enough, this is how, and why, open, graphic and painful. Not a movie I would recommend for the squeamish or sensitive, and certainly NOT for children (of any age). James Caveziel is believable and strong in the lead role, and more than ably supported by a cast of almost unknowns. Top marks all round, a film that will live in the memory long after you have seen it. Go see it for yourself, you may found out a lot you didn't know

Praise God! For He is Risen!
I have been a Christian since I was 7 yrs old, however I like many strayed from Gods chosen path. When I saw this movie I was not only moved to tears but found my life changing in the most wonderful of ways! I prayed for forgiveness of my sins again because all of what Jesus endured, he endured for us. He didn't have to, ya know? And I now have the blessed assurance that I will go to Heaven! Amen! This movie is very graphic but the graphics are uterly necessary if we are to grasp the truth of what Christ endured for all of us. I hope that you will see this film and that Christ's journey will have a profound impact in your life as well! God Bless!

As accurate as possible...
Mel Gibson did a stellar job portraying the final days of Jesus Christ's last days. Some may protest that it was overly violent; however, Gibson did not put in as much as what really happened. I doubt the American (or European) market is ready to see how truly brutal Christ's death really was. Yes, it was violent, but did you want to see the candy coated version of his death? I think not. Props to Mel for his sensitivity to the matter. I believe it could have been more graphic, but Mr. Gibson wouldn't have wanted his entire audience vomiting in the aisles. A+

This movie is awesome!
This movie was the best movie ever made, im a 16 year old catholic and i dont go much to church but i felt everything that jesus went through deep inside of me. Some people might not like the movie but thats their problem, God knows what evil spirit was toying with their mind. This movie was very well directed and left me speechless in the theatre. Mel Gibson is an awesome actor and he has now proven to be an awesome director also! Much love to all my peeps in the Bx baby~peace ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

A stupendous historical saga, Braveheart won five Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Director for star Mel Gibson. He plays William Wallace, a 13th-century Scottish commoner who unites the various clans against a cruel English King, Edward the Longshanks (Patrick McGoohan). The scenes of hand-to-hand combat are brutally violent, but they never glorify the bloodshed. There is such enormous scope to this story that it works on a smaller, more personal scale as well, essaying love and loss, patriotism and passion. Extremely moving, it reveals Gibson as a multitalented performer and remarkable director with an eye for detail and an understanding of human emotion. (His first directorial effort was 1993's Man Without a Face.) The film is nearly three hours long and includes several plot tangents, yet is never dull. This movie resonates long after you have seen it, both for its visual beauty and for its powerful story. --Rochelle O'Gorman ... Read more

Reviews (709)

A Fight For Freedom
Mel Gibson's Oscar winning epic, BRAVEHEART, is a great film. Set in the 13th century Gibson stars as William Wallace, a Scottsman, who returns to his homeland, after a long abscence. Upon his return, he learns that the Scott King has died, leaving no heir to the throne. The country is now being ruled by King Edward, (Patrick McGoohan) a ruthless leader, who cares nothing about the land or its people. William takes charge and vows to fight for the liberation of Scotland. BRAVEHEART is quite a film. From its breathtaking landscapes, shot by John Toll, to its intense battle sequences, the film will keep you "involved" throughout its entire 177 minutes. The script, by Randall Wallace, has its moments of over the top bravado. But it also has some good points as well. Gibson does a great job pulling double duty here, as director and star. Given the film's size and scope, this was not an easy movie to make, doing one job is hard enough...A stunning movie.

The DVD has two main extras on it. The commentary by Mr. Gibson is pretty good. However, my only gripe may be that the length of the film means some gaps of silence and a few moments where he repeats himself. The production feature is nicely produced by HBO but nothing more The only other extra on the disc is the inclusion of 2 theatrical trailers. I would have expected some more extras on the DVD, since its a multiple award winner...Even with my minor complaints, BRAVEHEART, still gets 5 stars from me, and comes highly recommended

A DVD Must-Have for any home video collection!
As a film, this is truly an awe-inspiring masterpiece that joins the ranks of great classics like "Lawrence of Arabia". Paramount did an excellent job in bringing this movie to DVD. The picture is clear and pristine due to the anamorphic enhancement & widescreen formatting which is required to convey the beauty of the film's various expansive wide landscape shots of the Scottish valleys. Audio soundtrack is richly detailed and expansive in its use of surround effects which adds the effect of "being there" especially during the brutal battle scenes. James Horner's music score comes through just beautifully. One aspect of this dvd I really enjoyed is the audio commentary track by the director himself Mel Gibson. He was very cordial, humorous, and at times very informative about the whole affair of making this movie. Just listening to Mel Gibson talk while viewing this movie made it feel as if you were watching it with a down-to-earth friend. You'll get a kick out of it. Trust me! There is one thing though: I just wish Paramount had included the TV clips from the Academy Awards show of Mel Gibson receiving the Oscars and his acceptance speech. The entire crew & Mel Gibson himself so richly deserved the Oscars the film won and including those Oscar clips in this DVD's supplements would have been icing on the cake. This DVD is a no-brainer, you can't get any better than this.

A COMPLETE cinematic experience. Totally satisfying
I saw this movie years ago when it first came out. Most movies aren't as good on second viewing. I just saw it again on DVD and it is BETTER than I remember it.

The acting is superb, especially by the young William Wallace at the opening of the film. Infact all the actors are excellent in this film.

What really takes my breath away in this film is the stunning (pre-computer generated)scenery, music, costumes, the sets and the magnificent battle scenes which really makes Bravehart a complete cinematic experience.

The DVD comes with an entertaining documentary on the making of the film with an excellent full length commentary by director/actor Mel Gibson. A must in any DVD collection. Highly recommended.

Ultra violence meets (...) humour
Mel Gibson must be a very disturbed man. All his films are very violent. "Payback", "The Patriot" and "The Passion of Christ"(which at least I found to be pretty funny though I don't think it was meant to be) all glorify violence.

Catherine McCormack takes off her clothes in this film which is why I give it 1 star and not 0. Unfortunately Sophie Marceau doesn't take off her clothes and even more unfortunate is that Mel does. I found the mooning scene in this movie to be quite childish

This movie is intended for the less intelligent American market rather than for us Scots. All of Mel Gibsons recent films are marketed towards less intelligent people such as George W Bush or the Pope or Mel himself I suppose.

Mel Gibson hasn't made a decent film since "Mad Max 2" yet he continues to make millions of dollars making these awful films.

I guess...
YOU CAN TAKE MY TALENT BUT YOU CAN'T TAKE MY MILLIONS!!!!

The best of the best.
I have made many top 10 movie lists, and they have changed over the years. There is one movie, however, that has never been moved and that movie is Braveheart in the number 1 spot. Many shy from the movie because of it being 3 hours long without even giving it a chance.I think everyone should watch it. You never think the movie is as long as it is when you actually watch it. The battle sequences were the best I have ever seen up until the release of Return of the King, but the battles are still the best in their own light. Every characater is played well, Mel Gibson playing especially well as the lead character William Wallace and his directing is flawless as well. I loved every minute of it and it will most likely always be my favorite movie of all time. ... Read more

Reviews (970)

Best movie ever by far
This film breaks the ceiling of amazon.com's five star limit. Regardless of your religion, loyalties, or personal beliefs, to remain unmoved by this film means you're Satan himself.

The film revolves around the last 12 hours of Jesus Christ's life on Earth. As a viewer who's actually read the New Testament before laying judgement on the film's accuracy, I'd say there was extremely little deviation from the original Gospels. The film is an overwhelmingly emotional roller coaster ride beginning at Jesus' mock trial under Pontius Pilate to His crucifixion and resurrection. The fact that the entire script was spoken in Aramaic and Latin lends credit to director Mel Gibson's seriousness in portraying the events as accurately as possible.

The film was violent and bloody, but no more than the average reel spewing forth from Hollywood nowadays, none of which receive so much as a blink for their levels of gratuitous violence. But then again, none of those films promote Christianity. Hmm....

The film was no more anti-Semetic than "Schindler's List" was anti-German or "Seven Years in Tibet" was anti-Chinese. This film simply portrayed events as we know them historically. The Jewish high priests happened to be one group of people who wanted Jesus dead. The Romans and Pharisees were the true villians of the movie, nor was Jesus spared betrayal by even his own Apostles. The movie does, on the other hand, show two Jewish high priests defending Jesus' innocence at his trial, and it shows Simon being mocked by a Roman guard for being Jewish. These two events I do not recall reading in the New Testament, lending creedence to Mel Gibson's effort to make the film NOT anti-Semetic. The high priests condemned Jesus to death, but it was the Roman guards who took true sadistic pleasure in His suffering.

The violence and bloodshed served a purpose. It was to show what Jesus went through, the amount of pain He suffered, for mankind. Reading it in a few Biblical passages is one thing, viewing it on the big screen for two hours straight puts a different perspective on it. The entire movie intertwined scenes of Christ's suffering with scenes of Him earlier in time giving sermons on love and forgiveness. This served to cement the fact that Jesus did not just practice what He preached. The most emotional scene was probably when Jesus was being nailed to the cross, the whole time praying for God to forgive His persecutors.

I've seen the film three times since it premiered five days ago, and I plan to see it many more times before it comes out on DVD. To warn you, the film makes you feel about an inch tall, but it is a much needed reminder of just what sacrifices were made by Him on our behalf. The closing scene was my favorite, and I hope you watch to see what it is. Amen and Hallelujah!

Deeply moving cinema with epic feel
Assuming you know the story (and one hopes most of us do) I felt you had to be neither religiously inclined, or interested in historical theology to take a lot away with you after seeing this picture. Heavily criticized for it's brutal depiction of the last 12 hours of the life of Christ, and maligned by some for encouraging anti semetism, I found it powerful and very moving, if disturbing. It is a testament to Mel Gibson's vision, and perseverance that NO major Hollywood studio picked up this picture, which was self funded by Mr Gibson at a cost of around $30 million. The fact that the dialogue is chiefly aramaic (the movie is subtitled throughout) could also be seen as enough to discourage a lot of viewers, but there is no doubt that this is powerful film making at it's best. Perhaps "enjoy" is the wrong word to use in how I felt after the movie which is violent and unforgiving in showing Christ's persecution and eventual execution on the cross, but it is compelling, absorbing and emotionally charged. The success of the picture (I feel) lies in the what has been the chief subject of critisicm, the blow by blow punishment and torture the viewer cannot help but share with the main character. However, perhaps this is the strength of the movie, and I believe Gibson's aim, in showing what has always been hinted at, or happened "off screen" in other films of the genre. Put simply, it is saying that knowing or saying that Christ suffered and died for our sins is not enough, this is how, and why, open, graphic and painful. Not a movie I would recommend for the squeamish or sensitive, and certainly NOT for children (of any age). James Caveziel is believable and strong in the lead role, and more than ably supported by a cast of almost unknowns. Top marks all round, a film that will live in the memory long after you have seen it. Go see it for yourself, you may found out a lot you didn't know

Praise God! For He is Risen!
I have been a Christian since I was 7 yrs old, however I like many strayed from Gods chosen path. When I saw this movie I was not only moved to tears but found my life changing in the most wonderful of ways! I prayed for forgiveness of my sins again because all of what Jesus endured, he endured for us. He didn't have to, ya know? And I now have the blessed assurance that I will go to Heaven! Amen! This movie is very graphic but the graphics are uterly necessary if we are to grasp the truth of what Christ endured for all of us. I hope that you will see this film and that Christ's journey will have a profound impact in your life as well! God Bless!

As accurate as possible...
Mel Gibson did a stellar job portraying the final days of Jesus Christ's last days. Some may protest that it was overly violent; however, Gibson did not put in as much as what really happened. I doubt the American (or European) market is ready to see how truly brutal Christ's death really was. Yes, it was violent, but did you want to see the candy coated version of his death? I think not. Props to Mel for his sensitivity to the matter. I believe it could have been more graphic, but Mr. Gibson wouldn't have wanted his entire audience vomiting in the aisles. A+

This movie is awesome!
This movie was the best movie ever made, im a 16 year old catholic and i dont go much to church but i felt everything that jesus went through deep inside of me. Some people might not like the movie but thats their problem, God knows what evil spirit was toying with their mind. This movie was very well directed and left me speechless in the theatre. Mel Gibson is an awesome actor and he has now proven to be an awesome director also! Much love to all my peeps in the Bx baby~peace ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

Mel Gibson's Oscar-winning 1995 Braveheart is an impassioned epic about William Wallace, the 13th-century Scottish leader of a popular revolt against England's tyrannical Edward I (Patrick McGoohan). Gibson cannily plays Wallace as a man trying to stay out of history's way until events force his hand, an attribute that instantly resonates with several of the actor's best-known roles, especially Mad Max. The subsequent camaraderie and courage Wallace shares in the field with fellow warriors is pure enough and inspiring enough to bring envy to a viewer, and even as things go wrong for Wallace in the second half, the film does not easily cave in to a somber tone. One of the most impressive elements is the originality with which Gibson films battle scenes, featuring hundreds of extras wielding medieval weapons. After Eisenstein's Alexander Nevsky, Orson Welles's Chimes at Midnight, and even Kenneth Branagh's Henry V, you might think there is little new that could be done in creating scenes of ancient combat; yet Gibson does it. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (709)

A Fight For Freedom
Mel Gibson's Oscar winning epic, BRAVEHEART, is a great film. Set in the 13th century Gibson stars as William Wallace, a Scottsman, who returns to his homeland, after a long abscence. Upon his return, he learns that the Scott King has died, leaving no heir to the throne. The country is now being ruled by King Edward, (Patrick McGoohan) a ruthless leader, who cares nothing about the land or its people. William takes charge and vows to fight for the liberation of Scotland. BRAVEHEART is quite a film. From its breathtaking landscapes, shot by John Toll, to its intense battle sequences, the film will keep you "involved" throughout its entire 177 minutes. The script, by Randall Wallace, has its moments of over the top bravado. But it also has some good points as well. Gibson does a great job pulling double duty here, as director and star. Given the film's size and scope, this was not an easy movie to make, doing one job is hard enough...A stunning movie.

The DVD has two main extras on it. The commentary by Mr. Gibson is pretty good. However, my only gripe may be that the length of the film means some gaps of silence and a few moments where he repeats himself. The production feature is nicely produced by HBO but nothing more The only other extra on the disc is the inclusion of 2 theatrical trailers. I would have expected some more extras on the DVD, since its a multiple award winner...Even with my minor complaints, BRAVEHEART, still gets 5 stars from me, and comes highly recommended

A DVD Must-Have for any home video collection!
As a film, this is truly an awe-inspiring masterpiece that joins the ranks of great classics like "Lawrence of Arabia". Paramount did an excellent job in bringing this movie to DVD. The picture is clear and pristine due to the anamorphic enhancement & widescreen formatting which is required to convey the beauty of the film's various expansive wide landscape shots of the Scottish valleys. Audio soundtrack is richly detailed and expansive in its use of surround effects which adds the effect of "being there" especially during the brutal battle scenes. James Horner's music score comes through just beautifully. One aspect of this dvd I really enjoyed is the audio commentary track by the director himself Mel Gibson. He was very cordial, humorous, and at times very informative about the whole affair of making this movie. Just listening to Mel Gibson talk while viewing this movie made it feel as if you were watching it with a down-to-earth friend. You'll get a kick out of it. Trust me! There is one thing though: I just wish Paramount had included the TV clips from the Academy Awards show of Mel Gibson receiving the Oscars and his acceptance speech. The entire crew & Mel Gibson himself so richly deserved the Oscars the film won and including those Oscar clips in this DVD's supplements would have been icing on the cake. This DVD is a no-brainer, you can't get any better than this.

A COMPLETE cinematic experience. Totally satisfying
I saw this movie years ago when it first came out. Most movies aren't as good on second viewing. I just saw it again on DVD and it is BETTER than I remember it.

The acting is superb, especially by the young William Wallace at the opening of the film. Infact all the actors are excellent in this film.

What really takes my breath away in this film is the stunning (pre-computer generated)scenery, music, costumes, the sets and the magnificent battle scenes which really makes Bravehart a complete cinematic experience.

The DVD comes with an entertaining documentary on the making of the film with an excellent full length commentary by director/actor Mel Gibson. A must in any DVD collection. Highly recommended.

Ultra violence meets (...) humour
Mel Gibson must be a very disturbed man. All his films are very violent. "Payback", "The Patriot" and "The Passion of Christ"(which at least I found to be pretty funny though I don't think it was meant to be) all glorify violence.

Catherine McCormack takes off her clothes in this film which is why I give it 1 star and not 0. Unfortunately Sophie Marceau doesn't take off her clothes and even more unfortunate is that Mel does. I found the mooning scene in this movie to be quite childish

This movie is intended for the less intelligent American market rather than for us Scots. All of Mel Gibsons recent films are marketed towards less intelligent people such as George W Bush or the Pope or Mel himself I suppose.

Mel Gibson hasn't made a decent film since "Mad Max 2" yet he continues to make millions of dollars making these awful films.

I guess...
YOU CAN TAKE MY TALENT BUT YOU CAN'T TAKE MY MILLIONS!!!!

The best of the best.
I have made many top 10 movie lists, and they have changed over the years. There is one movie, however, that has never been moved and that movie is Braveheart in the number 1 spot. Many shy from the movie because of it being 3 hours long without even giving it a chance.I think everyone should watch it. You never think the movie is as long as it is when you actually watch it. The battle sequences were the best I have ever seen up until the release of Return of the King, but the battles are still the best in their own light. Every characater is played well, Mel Gibson playing especially well as the lead character William Wallace and his directing is flawless as well. I loved every minute of it and it will most likely always be my favorite movie of all time. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Making this movie represented a rather risky venture for Mel Gibson--it was his first effort at directing, and the role demanded that he deliberately obscure his sexy matinee-idol looks. Gibson seems to truly relish his Lon Chaney Jr.-esque turn as Justin McLeod, a reclusive former teacher with half his face and body badly scarred, and a dark, secret past. The folks in McLeod's postcard-pretty Maine town have dubbed him "Hamburger Head" and exchange malicious gossip about him. But one boy is needy enough to dare to penetrate the fortress McLeod has built against the outside world. Fatherless Chuck Norstadt (Nick Stahl) is so anxious to escape his dysfunctional family that he pesters McLeod into becoming his mentor. Their relationship for the most part avoids the sort of sticky sentimentality one might expect from Hollywood. Chuck is a real, credible kid, a petulant pain with a chip on his shoulder, and McLeod is no Mr. Chips. It's fun, and quite moving, to watch these two cranky misfits battle their way toward a friendship that will change both their lives. Margaret Whitton (Major League) gives an unaffected performance as Chuck's narcissistic mother. "I'm just not cut out for this mothering racket," she tells her rudderless children, as she flits from man to man. Gibson's own personal code of honor, we suspect, is very much in evidence in this movie's message: One must take responsibility for what one wants in life. --Laura Mirsky ... Read more

Reviews (25)

First time's a charm.
Mel Gibson's first time directing is notably successful. The Man Without A Face is warm movie with themes touching prejudice, the relationship between teacher and student, and faces of deception. Chuck Norstadt is a young boy whose mother's capricious relationships have sent her skimming through multiple marriages and developing a considerable deal of tension at home. The dysfunctional family leaves Chuck desperately looking for companionship. He finds an unlikely friend, the town's "freak," Justin McLeod (Gibson), who had half his face horribly scarred in a car accident. McLeod lives in a big house on the coast as a lonely hermit whose past is shrouded in ugly rumors and fear.

McLeod becomes Chuck's tutor and his friend, although Chuck will do some teaching of his own. They both realize they have a lot to learn about each other, and their friendship develops into something stirring and honest. Things get complicated when vile rumors and intolerance threaten to separate them, though.

The script is smart, and Gibson's direction guides this film with a discerning knack for emotional lucidity and realism. Nick Stahl (as Chuck) is one of the few young actors who can do emotional expression that doesn't seem forced and stupid. This is critical, because bad casting for Chuck would seriously have ruined this movie. Gibson, of course, is great here, but what would you expect? He's a tremendously versatile actor. I do think the movie probably should have been about 10 minutes longer to flesh out the ending a bit. That's not a huge complaint...the last scene in the movie makes up for any disappointment because it is very moving and evocative in its simplicity. Ahh...truly an excellent movie.

A Powerhouse of a movie
This movie is an incredible moving expierience. Nick Stahl plays Chuck Nordstatt in this coming of age drama. The charming kid is beleved to be "too unstable and removed" to complete his dream: to be a pilot in the army. Once more, he doesn't have any recollection of his father, and his mother refuses to divulge such secrets. His older sister, and many of his friends think he is seriously disturbed. So he begins to question his self worth, and begins to think he is crazy. Then he meets with resident town freak,( Mel Gibson in his most powerful performance ever) an ex-teacher who decides to tutor him to help him acquire his dream. The movie teaches a valuable lesson, but doesn't come off as preachy(which is to it's benifit) Both charachters find what they are searching for in each other. The resoloution is visually stunning and touching. It proves that someone you've known for only a short time can impact you for the duration of your life.

Where is Mom when you need her?
This film is about people who judge another without knowing a thing about him - just make up a story! It also portrays how the members of some families in American today occasionally cross paths knowing little about each other. Throw in an incompetent, egotistical, selfish mother who is less interested in her children than in her next lover, and it is no wonder the boy turns to a stranger who is badly scarred for acceptance, encouragement, guidance, help and love. Too bad, McLeod could not have been accepted for who he seemed to be - a man who had been through a horrible ordeal trying to live in peace with others. Instead, all because he tried to befriend and aid a child (who, by the way, was a very dishonest child), he was silently judged guilty of who knows what crimes, all without trial, by a few disgusting bigots in this lovely vacation town. An interesting study of a dysfunctional fatherless family being raised by a single mom who has more money than brains. Good thing Gibson was in the movie to save the day, and the boy played his part well.

Surprisingly good
A surprisingly good movie considering it was Mel Gibson's first directorial effort, and also considering the role required Gibson to obscure his matinee-idol looks and assume the role of a horribly scarred, possibly disreputable outcast in a cliquey, suspicious little Maine coastal town.

Nick Stahl as the young boy who befriends Gibson is also terrific in the role. No doubt the kid has a bright future in acting. He is absolutely convincing as the young hopeful pursuing his dream of getting into an exclusive boarding school. His dysfunctional family can only pour cold water on the boy's dreams, and in that sense the two are made for each other--Stahl is an outcast even though surrounded by his own family--and Gibson is already a social outcast who has completely withdrawn from society and is living in mysterious solitude--a solitude no-one has dared intrude upon until Stahl stubbornly refuses to be turned away by Gibson's outwardly gruff exterior.

But the two come together when Stahl learns Gibson was a talented teacher once and can tutor him in the subjects he desperately needs to ace the exam into the exclusive boarding school. They overcome their own emotional baggage to forge a working friendship despite their difficulties.

Unfortunately, the movie strays off-base for a while with the kangaroo-court scene with the suspicious townies, who still have it in for Gibson, and the final ending is a little too short, but those are my only real criticisms.

All in all a very well cast, acted, and scripted film. Big Steve says go see it (or in this case, rent it) and don't Bogart the popcorn.

The last thing I wanted to mention is that I wonder if anybody else has noticed the similarity between this film and Stephen Crane's story, "The Monster?" Crane is of course known most for his Civil War novel, "The Red Badge of Courage."

The Outcast
Mel Gibson stars as a man who is hiding from a past that haunts him. In this, his directoral debut, he displayed that he was serious about his new found profession and announced that he was here to stay. Nick Stahl star's as a young boy with darkness in his own past. After having trouble at school, he gathers up all of the bravery he can muster to ask the reclusive hermit, known to the locals as "Hamburger Head", if he will help him with his school work. After much hesitation, Mcleod (Gibson) gives in. The first lesson he gives the boy is digging a hole, and you can guess how much the boy likes that.

The Man without a Face explores the deep relationship that can be shared after a man has been hurt, and a boy looses his father. Both of them have secrets, and both quickly develop a bond. Its one of Gibson's finest movies.

The only problem I had with the movie, was the predictable situation that the movie places Gibson and the Boy in near the end. I don't want to spoil it, but it would have been more enjoyable and less formulaic if they hadn't gone in that direction. Besides that small detail, all of the plot surrounding the incident is terrific, worth your time, and your tissues. If you want to study Nick Stahl in his other movies, he can be found in MTV'S "Wasted", and the great shocker "Bully". Also, he has a cameo (like everybody else) in "The Thin Red Line." ... Read more

Reviews (709)

A Fight For Freedom
Mel Gibson's Oscar winning epic, BRAVEHEART, is a great film. Set in the 13th century Gibson stars as William Wallace, a Scottsman, who returns to his homeland, after a long abscence. Upon his return, he learns that the Scott King has died, leaving no heir to the throne. The country is now being ruled by King Edward, (Patrick McGoohan) a ruthless leader, who cares nothing about the land or its people. William takes charge and vows to fight for the liberation of Scotland. BRAVEHEART is quite a film. From its breathtaking landscapes, shot by John Toll, to its intense battle sequences, the film will keep you "involved" throughout its entire 177 minutes. The script, by Randall Wallace, has its moments of over the top bravado. But it also has some good points as well. Gibson does a great job pulling double duty here, as director and star. Given the film's size and scope, this was not an easy movie to make, doing one job is hard enough...A stunning movie.

The DVD has two main extras on it. The commentary by Mr. Gibson is pretty good. However, my only gripe may be that the length of the film means some gaps of silence and a few moments where he repeats himself. The production feature is nicely produced by HBO but nothing more The only other extra on the disc is the inclusion of 2 theatrical trailers. I would have expected some more extras on the DVD, since its a multiple award winner...Even with my minor complaints, BRAVEHEART, still gets 5 stars from me, and comes highly recommended

A DVD Must-Have for any home video collection!
As a film, this is truly an awe-inspiring masterpiece that joins the ranks of great classics like "Lawrence of Arabia". Paramount did an excellent job in bringing this movie to DVD. The picture is clear and pristine due to the anamorphic enhancement & widescreen formatting which is required to convey the beauty of the film's various expansive wide landscape shots of the Scottish valleys. Audio soundtrack is richly detailed and expansive in its use of surround effects which adds the effect of "being there" especially during the brutal battle scenes. James Horner's music score comes through just beautifully. One aspect of this dvd I really enjoyed is the audio commentary track by the director himself Mel Gibson. He was very cordial, humorous, and at times very informative about the whole affair of making this movie. Just listening to Mel Gibson talk while viewing this movie made it feel as if you were watching it with a down-to-earth friend. You'll get a kick out of it. Trust me! There is one thing though: I just wish Paramount had included the TV clips from the Academy Awards show of Mel Gibson receiving the Oscars and his acceptance speech. The entire crew & Mel Gibson himself so richly deserved the Oscars the film won and including those Oscar clips in this DVD's supplements would have been icing on the cake. This DVD is a no-brainer, you can't get any better than this.

A COMPLETE cinematic experience. Totally satisfying
I saw this movie years ago when it first came out. Most movies aren't as good on second viewing. I just saw it again on DVD and it is BETTER than I remember it.

The acting is superb, especially by the young William Wallace at the opening of the film. Infact all the actors are excellent in this film.

What really takes my breath away in this film is the stunning (pre-computer generated)scenery, music, costumes, the sets and the magnificent battle scenes which really makes Bravehart a complete cinematic experience.

The DVD comes with an entertaining documentary on the making of the film with an excellent full length commentary by director/actor Mel Gibson. A must in any DVD collection. Highly recommended.

Ultra violence meets (...) humour
Mel Gibson must be a very disturbed man. All his films are very violent. "Payback", "The Patriot" and "The Passion of Christ"(which at least I found to be pretty funny though I don't think it was meant to be) all glorify violence.

Catherine McCormack takes off her clothes in this film which is why I give it 1 star and not 0. Unfortunately Sophie Marceau doesn't take off her clothes and even more unfortunate is that Mel does. I found the mooning scene in this movie to be quite childish

This movie is intended for the less intelligent American market rather than for us Scots. All of Mel Gibsons recent films are marketed towards less intelligent people such as George W Bush or the Pope or Mel himself I suppose.

Mel Gibson hasn't made a decent film since "Mad Max 2" yet he continues to make millions of dollars making these awful films.

I guess...
YOU CAN TAKE MY TALENT BUT YOU CAN'T TAKE MY MILLIONS!!!!

The best of the best.
I have made many top 10 movie lists, and they have changed over the years. There is one movie, however, that has never been moved and that movie is Braveheart in the number 1 spot. Many shy from the movie because of it being 3 hours long without even giving it a chance.I think everyone should watch it. You never think the movie is as long as it is when you actually watch it. The battle sequences were the best I have ever seen up until the release of Return of the King, but the battles are still the best in their own light. Every characater is played well, Mel Gibson playing especially well as the lead character William Wallace and his directing is flawless as well. I loved every minute of it and it will most likely always be my favorite movie of all time. ... Read more

Amazon.com

After all the controversy and rigorous debate has subsided, Mel Gibson's The Passion of the Christ will remain a force to be reckoned with. In the final analysis, "Gibson's Folly" is an act of personal bravery and commitment on the part of its director, who self-financed this $25-30 million production to preserve his artistic goal of creating the Passion of Christ ("Passion" in this context meaning "suffering") as a quite literal, in-your-face interpretation of the final 12 hours in the life of Jesus, scripted almost directly from the gospels (and spoken in Aramaic and Latin with a relative minimum of subtitles) and presented as a relentless, 126-minute ordeal of torture and crucifixion. For Christians and non-Christians alike, this film does not "entertain," and it's not a film that one can "like" or "dislike" in any conventional sense. (It is also emphatically not a film for children or the weak of heart.) Rather, The Passion is a cinematic experience that serves an almost singular purpose: to show the scourging and death of Jesus Christ in such horrifically graphic detail (with Gibson's own hand pounding the nails in the cross) that even non-believers may feel a twinge of sorrow and culpability in witnessing the final moments of the Son of God, played by Jim Caviezel in a performance that's not so much acting as a willful act of submission, so intense that some will weep not only for Christ, but for Caviezel's unparalleled test of endurance.

Leave it to the intelligentsia to debate the film's alleged anti-Semitic slant; if one judges what is on the screen (so gloriously served by John Debney's score and Caleb Deschanel's cinematography), there is fuel for debate but no obvious malice aforethought; the Jews under Caiaphas are just as guilty as the barbaric Romans who carry out the execution, especially after Gibson excised (from the subtitles, if not the soundtrack) the film's most controversial line of dialogue. If one accepts that Gibson's intentions are sincere, The Passion can be accepted for what it is: a grueling, straightforward (some might say unimaginative) and extremely violent depiction of the Passion, guaranteed to render devout Christians speechless while it intensifies their faith. Non-believers are likely to take a more dispassionate view, and some may resort to ridicule. But one thing remains undebatable: with The Passion of the Christ, Gibson put his money where his mouth is. You can praise or damn him all you want, but you've got to admire his chutzpah. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (1740)

I`ll join in and please your the child poser
You say the subconscious is all jibberish well then that means your more stupider than a child because the subconscious is part of the brain you hopeless waste of garbage.it doesn`t matter what you say the subconscious is the reson why jesus is real.Denying and avoiding the subconscious is not good enough but sticking up for a lie it always hard work and i understand you loe life want to stay in your pretty scene with other brainwashed scum just like yourselves.The subconscious is real and only trash avoid it.

Absolute Truths Abound!?
Problem 1: People who take on side immediately, only because they want to feel connected to the "mass" pop-culture audience.This is no mystery or suprise; be it sports, fashion, cars, vacation spots, etc., people desire connection to larger things mostly out of dissapointment from their own failures, losses, and frustrations.Gibson did not just pander to the religious-right bible thumping deep south fanatics, but what he really was after was placing blame square on someone's shoulders: seeing that Morgenstern's father had to beg Mel to cut out the blood be on your children part, it's pretty straightforward as to where he comes from and who he wishes to demonize.Furthermore, Gibson is staunchly Roman Catholic, demanding that people follow him and keep prayers in the Latin tongue...umm, alright Mel, frankly that whole side to you is lame and passe; it's like saying to someone "Hey, do these prayers my way or the highway!"Mel really looked to place blame and rekindle old doubts and frictions between the Vatican and the Middle East; perhaps he had is way in that respect.Main Point: Mel loves his Vatican and old religious practices and tried to turn the good Christians in America toward the side of the Vatican.Result: very bad move.
Problem 2: Religion or Race?What is really more important and deeply engrained in the minds of most peoples?Do you cast greater prejudice on grounds of physical features or religious affiliations?: Answer, race motivates on a deeper, actually realistic level as compared to phony religious claimings.All of the worlds struggles, great conflicts, boil down to nationalistic pride and xenophobia more so than religious differences; e.g. the Persians allowing Jerusalem to be a site of worship for all peaceful peoples.The real cancer on the Earth today is still the Vatican, which is itself pagan and by no means perfect (crusades, persecutions, papal bullying of nations including England and Germany by Romes legions, grand inquisition, etc.).Will there ever be an African Pope?Ha, not bloody likely.Let's be real people, the world is determined and judged not by titles or teams (though commendment and numbers do help a cause) but by physical looks and similarities to our own ideals and preferences.Main Point: Cut the nonsense, this world of ours is a cyclic sphere of national aspirations and individual coruption when faced with far-reaching decisions.Result: we judge not by content of character or work ethic but by ideals.
Problem 3: Religious difference as excuse for Racial decimation.The Vatican, Mel's favorite big brother, that old institution in Rome once hellbent on ruling the world (how dare these thugs in robes who do little work...Karol Wojytola or John Paul II as an exception...and do absolutely nothing for science or human alleviation but would rather tell women how to live and enjoy old religious ceremonies tell whole nations and unique peoples such as Russia and China how to live) has been shown in the last few years (child molestation and financial fraudulence) to be highly corrupt and hypocritical.How can Rome try to invade England and ruin Germany and deploy Spanish troops to Ireland hundreds of years ago, leaving death and destruction in their wake (Mel should have thought harder when making Braveheart, but being chauvanistic as he is, he forgot how the Scottish painted their faces blue and fought off Catholic Roman and Spanish troops trying to invande and take over the British Isles, not fight the English who have been a model nation to the world in regards to civilty and scientific thought...Newton ring a bell anyone?).Main Point: for a nonspiritual demagoguery such as the Vatican to escape unscathed for what they've done to so many nations who were gentle and intellgent and progressive all until Catholic dogma invaded, they've really dodged quite a few bullets.However, their time is running out.Result: a world growing increasingly tired of relgious teachings as their ever evolving senses tell them of its use as a pretext for conquests and plundering.
Problem 4: As the brilliant Harvard professor Samuel Huntington has portrayed in his books on clashes of cultures and remaking world order, the world is by no means stable.Not even after civil wars, revolutions, world wars, coups....none have secured the longlasting peace so hoped for by many, but not all (e.g. thugs, gangs, criminals, dictators - the less intelligent real-life monsters of past and present).The world of tommrrow is not one of religion (even south america is growing apart thanks to hugo chavez's finger pointing at america) but one of national identity...ironically, that has always been the case.Main Point: integration and segregation continue to pull at eachother, fracturing America more than ever before.The unrealistic thoughts of everyone "liking" each other and just "getting along" are over, and have never been much more than false words for false security.Result: An America and Western world that wakes up to the threats from the east, a new China that could be peaceful partner or worst nightmare, and countries forced to take extreme measures due to unwanted influences (i.e. muslims taking over London's streets, France becoming a barnyard bash that doesn't work, and China wanting to remain a cultural empire unhinged by capitalism.The world will survive and grow as old ideas of how to do just such collapse across the globe.Dogma fails while reason, service, and a new humanity to all neighbors, be they of any race, flourishes.The Herculean Man-God ideal fades as people grow tired of God being white, black, asian, green, blue, etc.The world matures, people relax spiritually, and scientific advance continues to do some good, some bad.As John Lennon so poetically said, sometimes we all have to "Let It Be."

TOO INCREDIBLE FOR WORDS
I have to agree with the reviewer MARTEE below. Its quite obvious someone is acting very child like trying to act touch. Such computer/Internet warriors are usually the most cowardly. If you hate religion and only bash it then you have a problem and need to be felt sorry for. But acting like a 2 year old idiot with all your posts bashing this film and religion only make you look like a twit. No one can take you serioulsy because your posts are nothing but trash plain and simple. You may think its cool and funny but trust me everyone looks at you like a loser. Anyway enough of talking about idiots. This film is so moving and so emotional that all who see it will be moved. Gibson created a masterpiece that will stand the test of time. A gripping emotional epic of christ. "THOSE THAT HEAR THE TRUTH HEAR MY VOICE" Jesus to Pilate. Well said and Well Done Mel Gibson

Could have been better
I think the bloodshed is a little excessive, the three stars is for the great cinematography but I think that Mel Gibson has a very violent mind after seeing part of this film (I never finished)

LMAO HIT A NERVE WITH THE 100 REVIEW FOOL HAHA
Ahh I AM lmao. I Like how the internet muscles are flaring. THe last 3 reviews (by the same person its easy to tell) Say there not the same person yet lmao there reviews are identical. With the same poor spelling no less lmao. Fools like this are typical cowards that hide behind there computers acting tough. They got me laughing hysterically thats for sure. No brains and no class pretty much describe them. Mel Gibson made a great moving movie about the final hours of christ.And no matter how these fools try to bash religion with there hate of it they cant deny the truth and power of this film.THey just choose to rant about there misguided hate of religion. Proves they have nothing in there lives because that is what they are NOTHING. Great job Mel Gibson. ... Read more

Reviews (25)

First time's a charm.
Mel Gibson's first time directing is notably successful. The Man Without A Face is warm movie with themes touching prejudice, the relationship between teacher and student, and faces of deception. Chuck Norstadt is a young boy whose mother's capricious relationships have sent her skimming through multiple marriages and developing a considerable deal of tension at home. The dysfunctional family leaves Chuck desperately looking for companionship. He finds an unlikely friend, the town's "freak," Justin McLeod (Gibson), who had half his face horribly scarred in a car accident. McLeod lives in a big house on the coast as a lonely hermit whose past is shrouded in ugly rumors and fear.

McLeod becomes Chuck's tutor and his friend, although Chuck will do some teaching of his own. They both realize they have a lot to learn about each other, and their friendship develops into something stirring and honest. Things get complicated when vile rumors and intolerance threaten to separate them, though.

The script is smart, and Gibson's direction guides this film with a discerning knack for emotional lucidity and realism. Nick Stahl (as Chuck) is one of the few young actors who can do emotional expression that doesn't seem forced and stupid. This is critical, because bad casting for Chuck would seriously have ruined this movie. Gibson, of course, is great here, but what would you expect? He's a tremendously versatile actor. I do think the movie probably should have been about 10 minutes longer to flesh out the ending a bit. That's not a huge complaint...the last scene in the movie makes up for any disappointment because it is very moving and evocative in its simplicity. Ahh...truly an excellent movie.

A Powerhouse of a movie
This movie is an incredible moving expierience. Nick Stahl plays Chuck Nordstatt in this coming of age drama. The charming kid is beleved to be "too unstable and removed" to complete his dream: to be a pilot in the army. Once more, he doesn't have any recollection of his father, and his mother refuses to divulge such secrets. His older sister, and many of his friends think he is seriously disturbed. So he begins to question his self worth, and begins to think he is crazy. Then he meets with resident town freak,( Mel Gibson in his most powerful performance ever) an ex-teacher who decides to tutor him to help him acquire his dream. The movie teaches a valuable lesson, but doesn't come off as preachy(which is to it's benifit) Both charachters find what they are searching for in each other. The resoloution is visually stunning and touching. It proves that someone you've known for only a short time can impact you for the duration of your life.

Where is Mom when you need her?
This film is about people who judge another without knowing a thing about him - just make up a story! It also portrays how the members of some families in American today occasionally cross paths knowing little about each other. Throw in an incompetent, egotistical, selfish mother who is less interested in her children than in her next lover, and it is no wonder the boy turns to a stranger who is badly scarred for acceptance, encouragement, guidance, help and love. Too bad, McLeod could not have been accepted for who he seemed to be - a man who had been through a horrible ordeal trying to live in peace with others. Instead, all because he tried to befriend and aid a child (who, by the way, was a very dishonest child), he was silently judged guilty of who knows what crimes, all without trial, by a few disgusting bigots in this lovely vacation town. An interesting study of a dysfunctional fatherless family being raised by a single mom who has more money than brains. Good thing Gibson was in the movie to save the day, and the boy played his part well.

Surprisingly good
A surprisingly good movie considering it was Mel Gibson's first directorial effort, and also considering the role required Gibson to obscure his matinee-idol looks and assume the role of a horribly scarred, possibly disreputable outcast in a cliquey, suspicious little Maine coastal town.

Nick Stahl as the young boy who befriends Gibson is also terrific in the role. No doubt the kid has a bright future in acting. He is absolutely convincing as the young hopeful pursuing his dream of getting into an exclusive boarding school. His dysfunctional family can only pour cold water on the boy's dreams, and in that sense the two are made for each other--Stahl is an outcast even though surrounded by his own family--and Gibson is already a social outcast who has completely withdrawn from society and is living in mysterious solitude--a solitude no-one has dared intrude upon until Stahl stubbornly refuses to be turned away by Gibson's outwardly gruff exterior.

But the two come together when Stahl learns Gibson was a talented teacher once and can tutor him in the subjects he desperately needs to ace the exam into the exclusive boarding school. They overcome their own emotional baggage to forge a working friendship despite their difficulties.

Unfortunately, the movie strays off-base for a while with the kangaroo-court scene with the suspicious townies, who still have it in for Gibson, and the final ending is a little too short, but those are my only real criticisms.

All in all a very well cast, acted, and scripted film. Big Steve says go see it (or in this case, rent it) and don't Bogart the popcorn.

The last thing I wanted to mention is that I wonder if anybody else has noticed the similarity between this film and Stephen Crane's story, "The Monster?" Crane is of course known most for his Civil War novel, "The Red Badge of Courage."

The Outcast
Mel Gibson stars as a man who is hiding from a past that haunts him. In this, his directoral debut, he displayed that he was serious about his new found profession and announced that he was here to stay. Nick Stahl star's as a young boy with darkness in his own past. After having trouble at school, he gathers up all of the bravery he can muster to ask the reclusive hermit, known to the locals as "Hamburger Head", if he will help him with his school work. After much hesitation, Mcleod (Gibson) gives in. The first lesson he gives the boy is digging a hole, and you can guess how much the boy likes that.

The Man without a Face explores the deep relationship that can be shared after a man has been hurt, and a boy looses his father. Both of them have secrets, and both quickly develop a bond. Its one of Gibson's finest movies.

The only problem I had with the movie, was the predictable situation that the movie places Gibson and the Boy in near the end. I don't want to spoil it, but it would have been more enjoyable and less formulaic if they hadn't gone in that direction. Besides that small detail, all of the plot surrounding the incident is terrific, worth your time, and your tissues. If you want to study Nick Stahl in his other movies, he can be found in MTV'S "Wasted", and the great shocker "Bully". Also, he has a cameo (like everybody else) in "The Thin Red Line." ... Read more