Here’s Mel again, delivering another inaccurate historical account for audiences. The Patriot centers on Benjamin Martin, a former soldier who’s now content as a family man until he gets pulled into the American Revolution. It seems Mel Gibson has a fondness for the British, evident in films like "Gallipoli," "Braveheart," and now "The Patriot." As with those earlier movies, some historical details have been altered to make it more palatable for Hollywood viewers. I won’t delve into the specifics of Benjamin Martin (who is based on Francis Marion) or William Wallace; that information is readily available online. Setting aside the creative liberties taken, how good is "The Patriot"? It's close to being really good -- almost. Gibson delivers a solid performance, carrying the film with energy and emotional depth. He’s believable as a devoted family man who evolves into a fierce warrior. The acting problems stem from beyond Gibson’s central role. Surrounded by stereotypical villains (though Jason Isaacs is wonderfully wicked) and underdeveloped characters (Chris Cooper feels underutilized, and Joely Richardson is essentially just scenery), Gibson naturally dominates the screen. This ultimately makes it feel like a vehicle for a single star, which isn't ideal for a historical war film. Roland Emmerich ("Independence Day" and "Godzilla") directs and executes the battle sequences effectively, with plenty of blood as men line up to shoot and maim each other. The cannon fire, explosions, and resulting carnage are brutal but strangely exciting. Even the blatant patriotism and slogans can’t diminish the impact of these well-staged battles. There's tragedy throughout the film, surprisingly handled with sensitivity by Emmerich, largely thanks to Gibson's performance, who remains one of the few contemporary actors capable of portraying grief convincingly. The score by John Williams is appropriately sweeping, alternating between stirring and delicate moments, and the cinematography from Caleb Deschanel is visually rich. More consideration should have been given to the racial issues (specifically slavery) within the conflict, and these shortcomings, along with the underdeveloped characters, hold "The Patriot" back as a film. It doesn't ruin the entertainment value, but it prevents it from being anything more than a one-person show. Nevertheless, largely due to Gibson’s efforts and despite its obvious flaws, it’s a drama that rises above average. 6/10

Source on TMDB