134 of 1001 Movies: Braveheart (1995)

Long before the likes of Apocolypto and The Passion of the Christ, was Braveheart. Not only did he star in Braveheart, but he directed the film, which would go on to win five academy awards. In the line of his other movies it seems to depict much of the same thing. A strong male lead who is out to free to his people. With a cast that lets mainly Mel Gibson shine, it is a well built movie that will be for those who enjoy a good empowering man movie.

After William Wallace has his newly bride executed by the English he begins to lead an uprising against Edward Longshanks, who rules Scotland with an iron fist. Not only does he invade villages to rule, but he allows his soldiers to take women from their husbands in the places they are stationed. William already knows the price paid to try to free their country, and he hasn't forgotten the death of his father and brother.  During his conquests he makes unlikely allies and finds unknown enemies.