Epic Elements In Braveheart

Superior Essays
Scotland's Superman Few words are more abused in Hollywood than historical and epic. While historical is such a broad term that can refer to anything in the past, epic is often the colloquial of anything that’s awesome. However, when the words combine they form a favored genre of moviegoers. According to FilmSite.org, “A historical epic is defined as film that takes a historical, mythic, heroic figure, and adds an extravagant setting accompanied by lavish costumes and a grand musical score.” While there are many films that loosely align with this definition, actor and director Mel Gibson’s Academy Award winning Best Picture film Braveheart, sets the standard. The 1995 film tells the story of William Wallace, a Scottish warrior in the late 12th century who leads the Scottish in the first war for independence against England. This amazing story of bravery is based on the poem, “The Acts and Deeds of the Illustrious and Valiant Champion Sir William Wallace”, written by an author called Blind Harry. Mel Gibson’s Braveheart thrusts William Wallace, a Scottish rebel, amid the historical wars for Scottish independence. Using extravagant settings along with memorable scenes this film captivates audiences as the model film within the historical epic genre.
A strong male protagonistic warrior is key element to the historical epic. William Wallace, a 13th century
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Using a historical, mythic or heroic figure as the main story with the help of extravagant settings and memorable scenes creates a fantastic epic. Cinematography, editing and an excellent musical score all assist in creating a wonderful film, but the best part is the plot behind the whole film. William Wallace, a hero to all of Scotland, was just a simple man who wanted freedom for all. Though his history is clouded, Mel Gibson does a excellent job at directing one of the most famous versions of Wallace's

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