THE PATRIOT takes place in 1776. Benjamin Martin (Mel Gibson), a dedicated family man and recent widower, was thought a "hero" in the French and Indian War but hates his savage behavior in that conflict. Now he has seven children to raise alone and is reluctant to fight for American independence from England even though he believes in freedom for America. His oldest son Gabriel (Aussie hottie Heath Ledger) joins the American Continental army despite his dad's wishes.

When cruel English Colonel Tavington (Jason Isaacs) and his men arrive at the Martin farm in South Carolina, he threatens Martin's family and events force Martin to again go to war. Martin and his son go through many bloody battles and sorrows before Martin faces the demons of his own past and his band of rag-tag militia men get the upper hand in the war.

"The Patriot" is an historically accurate picture of the Revolutionary War in America, although the English weren't usually as brutal as bad guy Tavington. It's full of war action but mainly, it's the story of dedication to family above all. It shows what it would be like to live with a war going on right in your backyard. Modern American girls are lucky enough not to have seen this happen in our lifetimes but many girls in other countries (Ireland, South Africa, etc.) have seen this first hand. It's about the strength of the human spirit and ordinary people forced into violent situations. It was great!

WARNING: The Revolutionary War was fought hand-to-hand and was extremely brutal. This film has many scenes that depict this violence. The Director brought us "Independence Day" and the writer wrote "Saving Private Ryan". It's up to parents to view the film first and decide if their children should go. Despite the violence and sorrow, the great scenes of family loyalty and dedication and the historical value, merit consideration.

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