Braveheart

In the late 13th century William Wallace (Mel Gibson) returns to Scotland after living away from his homeland for many years. The king of Scotland has died without an heir and the king of England - a ruthless pagan known as Edward the Longshanks - has seized the throne. Wallace becomes the leader of a ramshackle yet courageous army determined to vanquish the greater English forces. Wallace's courage and passion unite his people in "Braveheart."

When William Wallace returns to Scotland he is reacquainted with Murron (newcomer Catherine McCormack). Their ill-fated romance results in the Scottish rebellion gaining a selfless and single-minded leader. Murron first met William Wallace when they were children. When he goes back to the village, they fall in love and get married in secret. They look forward to living as farmers and

bringing up children. Unfortunately it doesn't work out that way. It is William Wallace's deep and lasting love for Murron that spurs him to fight for Scotland's freedom.

At the historic battle of Stirling, Wallace leads his army to a stunning victory against the English. Knighted by the grateful Scottish nobles, Sir William Wallace extends the conflict south of the border and storms the city of York. King Edward I (Patrick McGoohan) is astonished by the unexpected turn of events. Unable to rely on his ineffectual son Prince Edward (Peter Hanly), Longshanks sends his daughter-in-law Princess lsabelle (Sophie Marceau) to discuss a truce with Wallace.

"William Wallace is one of the people who have changed the course of history," comments Mel Gibson. "His is an incredible story about courage, loyalty, honor and the brutality of war. The film is also an inspiring love story."

A few years ago, no one could have conceived that the action star could pull off the lead role in a dazzling, epic, historical adventure-thriller-romance, let alone direct it. But he does, making a vastly entertaining and powerful film.

Meryl Brunnock