The Patriot
After proving himself on the field of battle in the French and Indian War, Benjamin Martin wants nothing more to do with such things, preferring the simple life of a farmer. But when his son Gabriel enlists in the army to defend their new nation, America, against the British, Benjamin reluctantly returns to his old life to protect his son.
Critics Sentiment
Benjamin Martin kills Tavington in personal combat
Tavington burns the church with Anne and townspeople inside
The film's biggest swing occurs from the church burning massacre to Gabriel's death and then Benjamin's emotional flag scene, representing the movie's most criticized moment followed by its most acclaimed sequence.
The Patriot follows a classic arc of strong setup, thrilling middle action sequences, and a controversial but emotionally effective climax. Critics consistently praised Gibson's performance and the spectacular battle scenes while criticizing the historically inaccurate and over-the-top villainy of British characters. The film succeeds as entertainment despite its historical liberties, with the flag scene and final battle representing its emotional and visual peaks.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 62
Mel Gibson
Benjamin Martin
Heath Ledger
Gabriel Martin
Joely Richardson
Charlotte Selton
Jason Isaacs
Col. William Tavington
Chris Cooper
Col. Harry Burwell
Tchéky Karyo
Jean Villeneuve
René Auberjonois
Reverend Oliver
Lisa Brenner
Anne Howard
Tom Wilkinson
Gen. Cornwallis
Donal Logue
Dan Scott
Leon Rippy
John Billings
Adam Baldwin
Capt. Wilkins
Jay Arlen Jones
Occam
Joey D. Vieira
Peter Howard
Gregory Smith
Thomas Martin
Mika Boorem
Margaret Martin
Skye McCole Bartusiak
Susan Martin
Trevor Morgan
Nathan Martin
Bryan Chafin
Samuel Martin
Logan Lerman
William Martin
Crew
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