Is Braveheart Based on a True Story? Ending Explained
by Reshwanth A | Updated Apr 25, 2023
Is Braveheart Based on a True Story?
Braveheart, the 1995 historical epic film, directed by and starring Mel Gibson, is loosely based on the story of William Wallace, the 13th-century Scottish leader. The movie follows the story of Sir William Wallace, a Scottish warrior who led the Scots in the First War of Scottish Independence against King Edward I of England in the late 13th century. The film's inspiration came from Blind Harry's epic poem The Actes and Deidis of the Illustre and Vallyeant Campioun Schir William Wallace, which was written in the 15th century. The screen adaptation was done by Randall Wallace.
Gibson's portrayal of Sir William Wallace was widely acclaimed, and the film went on to receive numerous awards, including five Academy Awards, Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Cinematography. The film's battle scenes were particularly praised for their realism and intensity. Braveheart became a cultural phenomenon, with its story of Scottish rebellion and freedom resonating worldwide.
Wallace was a heroic Scottish warrior who led his people in a rebellion against the English until his torturous death in 1305. The film was inspired by Blind Harry's 15th-century biographical poem, "Actes and Deidis of the Illustre and Vallyeant Campioun Schir William Wallace," composed 172 years after Wallace's death.
Braveheart Plot
Braveheart is a historical epic film directed by and starring Mel Gibson, loosely based on the story of 13th-century Scottish leader William Wallace. The movie depicts Wallace's journey as he witnesses the execution of Scottish nobles by the invading English, loses his family fighting against them, and leads his clan in rebellion against the English. Wallace's legend grows as hundreds of Scots join his cause, and he wins the Battle of Stirling Bridge and sacks York. He seeks the assistance of nobleman Robert the Bruce but is betrayed by him during the Battle of Falkirk. Wallace continues to wage a guerrilla war against the English, assisted by Isabella, with whom he has an affair. He is ultimately executed for high treason, but his memory inspires Robert the Bruce to lead the Scots to victory at the Battle of Bannockburn and win their freedom.
Braveheart Ending Explained
In London, William Wallace is brought before an English magistrate and condemned to public torture and a beheading for high treason. Despite being disemboweled alive, Wallace refuses to submit to the king and shouts "Freedom!" instead of accepting the magistrate's offer of mercy. The watching crowd, moved by his valor, cries out for mercy on his behalf. Just before being beheaded, Wallace sees a vision of his late wife Murron in the crowd, smiling at him.
In 1314, Robert the Bruce leads a Scottish army against the English troops on the fields of Bannockburn, where he is supposed to accept English rule. Instead, he invokes Wallace's memory and encourages his men to fight with the same spirit. Hamish throws Wallace's sword point-down in front of the English army, and he and the Scots chant Wallace's name as Robert leads them into battle, ultimately winning Scotland's freedom.
Braveheart Review
Many viewers consider Braveheart to be a remarkable and groundbreaking war epic, deserving of its Academy Award win. The film tells the story of a Scottish peasant named William Wallace who rises up against English tyranny after his wife is murdered. The strong cast, including Mel Gibson, Patrick McGoohan, Sophie Marceau, and Brendan Gleeson, deliver outstanding performances. The battle sequences are gritty and violent, contributing to the authentic tone of the film. The score, composed by James Horner, is majestic and powerful.
Is Braveheart Based on a True Story - FAQs
While the film is based on the life of Scottish hero William Wallace, it takes many liberties with historical facts for dramatic purposes. For example, the film portrays Wallace as leading the Scots to victory at the Battle of Stirling Bridge, but in reality, the bridge wasn't present during the battle.
Braveheart won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for Mel Gibson. The film also won Best Cinematography, Best Makeup, and Best Sound Effects Editing.
Mel Gibson played the role of William Wallace in the film, as well as directed and produced it.
The line is a rallying cry for Scottish independence and has become an iconic phrase associated with the film. It represents the idea that the Scots would rather die fighting for their freedom than live under English rule.