THE PATRIOT – From the year 2000, this Revolutionary War film offers an interesting perspective on an important battle between the militia (aiding regular soldiers) and the Redcoats which apparently was a turning point in the war. It’s a decent film, especially now when Americans need reminding how important our Democracy is and how hard fought it was to achieve. Mike loved it, of course, because he loves American history (particularly anything to do with the Revolution). But the film is too long and too violent. It could have been reduced to a 2 hours and had a more powerful impact. The battle scenes in particular are tedious and go on forever. Much of the violence is unnecessary. Mel Gibson is the main star and he is believable in the role of a father reluctant to fight but forced into the battle after the loss of his sons. But it is the performance of my boyfriends – Heath Ledger, Jason Isaacs and Chris Cooper who make this film engaging for me. So…cheers from me and Mike. Boyfriends – 3; Girlfriends – 0.