7th October, 2000 |
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7th October, 2000 |
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Michelina Fino, Daddy Long Legs, Ruby Telfer, Jeanette Fausz, Celte, G McSuibhe, Barney Stirling, Hiram Cordero, Heather, Janny Davis, Erin, Mark Spere, Guest@web13, Frank Cummins, Richard Taylor, Patricia Pryke, Joost Bart, Charlotte Ashbey, Michael Wheeler, Doug Hansen, Lorena, Kendra Sheffield Phelps, Vanessa Meidinger, G L Snow, Jean-Pierre Lapointe, Tony Welch, Jason Bradford Ormsby, Lisa, Andy Livingstone, Corry, Alex Scarberry, Noor Faizah, Brenda Mullis, C Naismith, CelticJDC, Jody Gale, Eugene M Sopko, Joann P Montgomery, Jim Lauricella, Michelle, Joao Daniel Ramos. Erica Jiggins, Michael Delaney, Ryan Stewart, Graham St John, Bonnie Bell, Codlin, Robert Tonge, Sharon Sloan, Kenneth Campbell, Wali Bukhari, K Katchpole, James Leonard, Patrick Plante, Julie Bachman, K Isbister, Bruce Campbell Johnson, Ed Spence
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| Michelina Fino ... Hello... Imagine my delight and gratitude to literally stumble onto your wonderful website. I am very excited. Since seeing Braveheart, there began an uncanny sense of desire to learn more about William Wallace. How happy I was to come upon your site, as I was floundering on my own in efforts to satisfy this quest. Here, upon my first computer ... I am discovering all kinds of things. But your site is my favorite. I just wanted to thank you. ... Again, heartfelt thanks for keeping the true spirit of William Wallce's memory alive. Sincerely, Michelle Fino ...... U.S.A. March, 2000 |
| Daddy Long Legs ... I had not seen the movie Braveheart until as of late. Since my first viewing, I have had to see it numerous times, picking up something new every time. Now that I have a computer, I'm able to find out more of the story. I'm not sure I can put my finger on the appeal, I suspect an incarnation and involvement in the movement explains my hunger for more. Wonderful web site, keep up the good work and thank you. March, 2000 |
| Ruby Telfer ... I have just come across your web site and find it fascinating. We are Scottish and our daughter plays the bagpipes. We love to follow her to all the many different Highland competitions and never get tired of it! I am keeping this site bookmarked so I can come back to it often. Braveheart is definitely the Best!! Glad I found you, Ruby January, 2000 |
| Jeanette Fausz ... Dear John and Linda, Forgive me for using your first names but after spending an hour on your Braveheart website I feel like I know you! I noticed that many of the Braveheart sites have fallen by the wayside and was delighted to find one so up-to-date and detailed. Braveheart is my all time favorite movie as well. It inspired me to travel to Scotland twice now. I do have Scottish things all around my house and office, including a Braveheart mousepad which I use at work (to the surprise of my fellow employees). Thanks again for your website. I'll keep checking for new items! Sincerely, Jeanette Fausz St. Louis, Missouri USA January, 2000 |
| Celte ... When I saw for the first time BRAVEHEART I felt as I never felt in any other film in my life.... I could see through William Walace a person that I always wanted to be... I am trying every day in my life to do what W.W. did.... Try to be FREE and to fight the "english" and every "english" in this world... Thank you.... Thank you all... December, 1999 |
| G McSuibhe ... Greetings, When I first saw Braveheart I ignored the complete lack of historical innacuracy regarding clothes (plaids, woad) and focused and the feelings of the film. These were strong and drove me to further research my own family, the MacSweeneys (galloglas) of Donegal, but whom first lived on the West Coast of Scotland, building Sween castle etc. They were forced to leave Scotland after fighting alongside the English at Bannockburn. But whatever side, that spirit that Braveheart so excellently stirs, is there in all our souls. ALL, as in the British Isles..... G McSuibhe Slan, Adh mor. December, 1999 |
| Barney Stirling ... I remember going to watch Braveheart when it first came out in theatres here in Canada. I wasn't sure what to expect as I seen or heard very little about the movie. I am grateful to have seen such a great movie that is so inspiring, I have watched the movie more than a hundred times since then and will probably continue to watch it as long as I shall live...... I am 33 years old and of First Nations/Scottish decent. I get a lot of ribbing from my friends and co-workers about my obsession with Braveheart, which I don't really care...... the history, the music score are just so amazingly done....... I have the Soundtrack in my car at my office and listening to the CD is almost like watching the movie again......... One of the scenes that really gripped me was when they were bringing back young William's father and brother back after getting killed. My mother died recently and seeing how young William reacted was the same way I felt when my boss came to tell me I have to go home for an emergency, I knew instantly that something was wrong and I felt that William knew as well, scenes such as that make great movies as they grip your true feelings deep inside....... I've been to 3rd world countries where oppression is very real and I can relate to what has happened in the history of Scotland and their fight for freedom. I tell you it will give you a very different perception on life when visiting a country where oppression is rampant. Many of us don't realize what has had to be done to get us to where we are today. Could you imagine what it would be like now if "William Wallace" was never born? Much different I would think. I know for one I wouldn't be here typing my thoughts on this. Like the words at the beginning of the movie say "History is written by those who have hanged Heroes". There is a lot of mis-information on the teaching of history and past events...... Braveheart helped me learn a lot about the true history of Scotland which I would have never really learned or found out about anywhere else. I am currently awaiting a DVD release of the Braveheart movie, which I hope will be soon? does anyone know if there are plans for this happening, as well as a Movie about "Robert the Bruce"? Barney Stirling December, 1999 |
| Hiram Cordero ... Hi!. My name is Hiram Cordero from PUERTO RICO. I saw the Brave Heart movie when I was 20 years old and since that day my life changed. I look at my country and my nation with diferent eyes, and I know that we are not Free at all. When you see people who are like that other nation, telling them what to do with those lands, and don't try to make his own decitions, that make me feel sick. I don't pretend to change the world, but I know that we could be free one day. When the people start to BELIEVE in themselves we will be free. When I was 14 I started to work washing cars, and since that day I try to make everything by myself, because I think if I have a brain and I could work, why? Somebody got to tell you what to do with your life. I think if we have our own goverment and we could stay with all the money that other nation is taking from us because we are "part of them". We could progress a lot and make things that we never believed that we could do. Sorry for my grammar - I don't practice writing in English a lot, but I just wanted to express myself. And again Thanks for opening my eyes and starting to see how beautiful is the freedom. November, 1999 |
| Heather ... The appeal I got from BraveHeart was overwhelming. You don't reallize the struggle people had to go throught back in those days. We take for granted what we have now. If we could just take step back in time to that age then people might realize "Hey man we really have it good". After watching this movie I realized we need to value our Freedom and take it more seriously. November, 1999 |
| Janny Davis ... Hi! I found your Braveheart page and it's laid out really well! Sometimes when you find a page it is not thought out very well. I liked the story of Braveheart and it was on TV this week and we love it! There's a pride and honor that is not seen in movies/life today, and Mel Gibson and Angus MacFayden are not bad to look at either!! Sigh! It is nice to read about the actors like Angus (now that I know who he is). September, 1999 |
| Erin ... After I saw the movie Braveheart, I was really moved. I compose songs on the piano and soon enough I made up a song about Braveheart. I tried to portray my feelings through the song and when I was finished, my song sounded very Scottish. I can only compose songs about things that really mean a lot to me and Braveheart taught me so much. I saw the courage and nobility Wallace and his followers had, how they were willing to die for something that should never have been taken away from them: their freedom. Now I try to remember their courage and live my life that way. Full of love for freedom and the willingness to do anything for it. This is a great web site and I think it is awesome that there are other people that feel the way I do when I think of the movie Braveheart. Sincerely, Erin September, 1999 |
| Mark Spere ... Very nice web site! Keep up the good work. Great movie. Scotland is a beautiful country. Lived in St. Andrews when I was a kid. Very much into Celtic history. Thanks for the good time! Will be back! From Stirling's sister city in Dunedin, Florida. Thanks Again,Mark. August, 1999 |
| Guest@web13... 'Romantic nationalism and the disaster of Braveheart' As a Briton (a man of dubious ethnic past from 'Scotland' as we now call it) - a decendant of the people who spoke a form of welsh as the last true Britons now speak. We spoke it from Edinburgh to Catterick. We were the North - why do you think we get on with everyone in this area exept when you get further south - culture is the same in all but name. I am apalled at the effect B'heart has had on the non thinking classes. I don't call myself as Scot - Unless you can trace all of your ancestry directly back to a tribe of plundering Gaels the Romans called 'Scoti' then you're not a Scot - like me you may have a bit of Norse, Pict, Saxon, or Gael in you. That Scotland never and will never exist. What use is a national boundary or the moronic concept of 'Independence in Europe' when economics and the threat of nuclear war or global warming doesn't give two f**ks about 'nationality'. No room for Pakies or Chinkies in your 'Brave' new world? August, 1999 [Plenty of room for 'brave' hearts of all creeds and colours. Plenty of room for the less brave (of the anonymous variety) too. Room for heroes, but no room for hatred. J&L]
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| Frank Cummins ... I have no information but I just wanted to say that Braveheart was an absolutely fantastic film, probably the best film I have ever seen. May seem strange to hear coming from an Englishman!!! I travel up to Scotland a lot because of my work (mainly to Largs and Inverness) and I love the country. Congratulations on a great web page. Regards, Frank August, 1999 |
| Richard Taylor ... Hi, John: I lived in England for five years, but my heart and soul are Scottish and, though removed by several generations, I have Scottish ancestry on both sides and could not be more pleased about recent changes in the UK regarding Scotland's limited independence. Indeed, 'Braveheart', provided an impetus to explore my genealogy and I discovered ties to the Campbell and McBeth/McDonald clans. Sorry I missed you at the Oakland Games here. Perhaps next year? I'm hoping to return to the UK to visit many friends next year, but it is of course my heartfelt desire to visit Scotland and tour all the Wallace landmarks next year, too, or soon thereafter. Thank you again, Richard Taylor. San Francisco, USA July, 1999 |
| Patricia Pryke ... I have become interested in William Wallace since seeing Braveheart, the movie. I am glad that I saw the movie and learned about this remarkable man. I cannot think of another figure in history, in any country, including my own, who has touched me so deeply. There is not another person in history that I admire more than William Wallace. I have just begun to study about him in earnest and look forward to learning all that is available. I would be proud to be a Scot knowing that William Wallace is part of my history. Thank you, Patricia Pryke July, 1999 |
| Joost Bart ... Hello John, Last week I saw Braveheart for the first time and it really impressed me. For that reason I was delighted to find out there are people like you who have the same interest in the movie. I am interested in receiving the newsletter you write about on the internet site. Thanks. Yours sincerely, Joost Bart Netherlands July, 1999 |
| Charlotte Ashbey ... Dear John and Linda, Hello. My name is Charlotte. I go to a Day Centre which is called Parchment Trust. I am into history which also includes the medieval times. I like the film of Braveheart and my favourite actor is Mel Gibson, but his name in Braveheart is William Wallace. My best is when they fight on the battlefield and he throws his sword across the battlefield. Hope to hear from you, Charlotte Ashbey July, 1999 |
| Michael Wheeler ... Hello folks, I came across your site tonight almost by accident and seeing it almost brought a tear to my eye!! I now have a reason to go online again. I will never forget seeing the film for the first time (it came out on my birthday). From the very beginning, I was hooked and it felt like the essence of Scotland got into my soul. I have very shaky ties to the clan Keith, but what little Scot is in me, is very proud!! Keep up the amazing work. Scotland forever Michael July, 1999 |
| Doug Hansen ... It's 5:00 in the morning, not quite 7 hours since the music and the final credits ended - the fourth time I've seen it. And I watched it - again - because I needed to. And I wonder about that: A need to see something so passionate, something that shows the entire spectrum of life in three hours. If that was, indeed, a very close portrayal of William
Wallace, then we would all do very well to live accordingly, sans violence, of course.
What captures me is that it is so much of how I want to live but am encouraged -
nay....... forced - to not do so in this world of "civility" and compromise
....... and In the film "Rob Roy", actor Liam Neeson, portraying Rob Roy MacGregor, stated simply that a man's word was, in the final analysis, the most important possession he could have. It's all about doing what is right. Just what is right. As a father of two young sons, if I had my wish I would want them to see me when, in a few years, they're able to watch "Braveheart". And that is the highest goal I have ever set for myself - and I have loftily set quite a few. June, 1999 |
| Lorena ... Braveheart broke my heart Lorena from Argentina June, 1999 |
| Kendra Sheffield Phelps ... Thank you for creating this wonderful site! The story of William Wallace makes me so proud of my heritage, and inspires me to stand up for my beliefs. My mother and I have recently found information via the Mormon LDS website that Wallace may be one of our ancestors, and also that Robert the Bruce is definitely one of our ancestors. May, 1999 |
| Vanessa Meidinger ... When I saw Braveheart for the first time, I was fascinated and moved by the story of William Wallace - and still I am. The most touching scene was Wallace shouting FREEDOM at his execution. I burst into tears and in this moment I knew that I would never give up believing in my dreams and ideals. And that I'd never stop fighting for them. Whenever I feel like letting go of my dreams I think of William Wallace - and that gives me the strength to stand up and fight again. Because at the moment you give up your dreams and ideals you die - not physically but spiritually/mentally. It would be a betrayal of ourselves. This is what Wallace showed us. In these fast and superficial times where everybody has to get by as good as he can we need an inspiration how to really live. I think the movie "Braveheart" is one - at least for me. May, 1999 |
| G L Snow ... The movie really touched me. The scenery looked cold but felt warm ..... familiar ..... the people. People I would like to know ... I got pissed at that movie (Longshanks) ..... I felt the agony of Robert the Bruce, and that little nut from Ireland cracked me up .... but the pride ... man, when he shouted freedom ..... I was ready to pick up a sword and attack the freakin' screen. This man was a leader ... I think had I been alive during that time I would have followed Wallace ..... I'd have gotton my ass hacked off ..... but I would have followed that kind of leader ..... wish we had one now ..... May, 1999 |
| Jean-Pierre Lapointe ... Hello companions of Braveheart My name is Jean-Pierre Lapointe of Quebec (Can). I have stop to counting the many times I saw this ultimate movie. Simply because I watch it again in part or totally maybe 1 or 2 times per week. If I don't have any occasions it's bad because the next times I saw it it's for 2 times and more on a shot on a evening. The movie has excite my curiosity about the Scotland country, his history, his people. Here in Quebec many people had Scottish blood because they are the descending from a Scottish soldier who decided after the conquest in 1759-60 to stay and lived in Quebec. That's why we have family as McLeod, Fraser, Cambell etc. who speak French. The movie revealed to me some common points in the Scottish and Quebec culture like emotional feelings and others. So the Braveheart movie have add something more in my mind, that's why I say is best best movie that I saw. I don't believe another movie will take its place or have the same impact. Friendly yours JPL Québec city April, 1999 |
| Tony Welch ... I love your page and just wanted to say I loved the movie Braveheart. Its my favorite movie of all time and it probably always will be. You have an awesome page and I hope you keep it up and running. April, 1999 |
| Jason Bradford Ormsby ... I have perused several of the messages in this area and am not surprised by any of them. Of course the movie Braveheart is appealing, it personifies everything that our hearts tell us is right and good. I am particularly interested in the message from Andy Livingstone. I have done my homework and understand that in reality little is known about William Wallace, and I agree that many things are different in the 20th century. But Mr. Livingstone has erred in omitting one simple truth, that is that human nature does not change. The legend of William Wallace is what it is because people needed to embrace something, and William Wallace fought for something he believed in. Mr. Livingstone's attempt to brand Wallace as self serving or simply a fighter is more ridiculous than anything legend could produce. Furthermore, why is it so wrong for Scots to embrace this legend, could you really make a good argument that such a legend is hampering the 'progress' of the Scottish people? I can respect Mr. Livingstone's desire to focus on corroborated reality, but would beg him not to destroy something as powerful as the legend of William Wallace in the process. Houston, Texas April, 1999 |
| Lisa ... To me, the appeal of the Braveheart movie was the fascination of finding out if such a person really lived. Once I learned that, I spent two years reading all books ever written about Sir William Wallace, King Robert the Bruce and many other books on the history of Scotland. My dream is to visit Scotland. With so much history to explore, I may have to move there. It is a wild dream, but one I keep alive in reading and owning a small library of books on Scotland. There were so many other heroes of those early wars with England, but I think that Sir William Wallace is the single most one of them to bring Scotland to where it is today. Anyway the true story remains even more fascinating than the movie. But Mel Gibson did a fine job with his own movie. I have watched it 21 times. March, 1999 |
| Andy Livingstone ... I notice from your e:mails that most of your correspondents are teenage Americans so I would like to put the viewpoint of a middle-aged Scot. Firstly, let me say that as a Scot I am mildly offended that the part of Wallace was played by a second-rate Australian actor. (If you doubt he is second-rate I suggest you watch his Hamlet). It is apparent from your e:mails that many people believe this film to be 'historical
fact' whereas I think 'hysterical romance' would be nearer the mark especially as so
little is known of Wallace and taking into account the suspicious similarities between the
legends attached to him and to a certain 'Robin Hood' (I read on another web site that the
Robin Hood legend is an English version of the Wallace legends but I'm afraid that won't
do as the Robin Hood legend was current at least 75 years before the birth of Wallace.
Anybody who is interested should read J.C. Holt's 'Robin Hood' which explains the origin
of the legend in convincing detail). Therefore what was this 'freedom' that Wallace was purported to be fighting for? Nothing more than the right to be oppressed by a different member of the same ruling class. It seems far more likely then that Wallace was either fighting for himself or because he just liked fighting. Braveheart is as much myth as King Arthur and Robin Hood and it is time that the Scottish people stood up and are proud of what we have achieved in the modern world rather than harking back to perceived injustices of a different era. As for the film, well I personally disliked this attempt to create a mixture of Mad Max and Rambo out of what was at best a squabble over who could oppress the most people. April, 1999 [See Jason's response to the above message ]
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| Corry ... THE BEST MOVIE EVER MADE!!! Just want to say, Mel Gibson is a great actor! Many greetings from Holland!! Corry from the Netherlands. March, 1999 |
| Alex Scarberry ... My name is alex. I am 7 years old and Braveheart has been my favorite movie for 3 years now. Please send me back a reply. Thank you, Alex February, 1999 |
| Noor Faizah ... Hi! I'm Noor Faizah, 18 and from Singapore. I truly admire the courage of Sir William Wallace and I got teary whenever I watch the movie and, for your information, I watched it every day every since I've got the videotape. It's true, I swear. I was inspired by the movie and there has been nothing on my mind except for Everything Scottish. I taped every documentary of Scotland and anything to do with it. I wish I was a Scots girl and I wish I was there when Sir William was still alive. I truly admire this man of Freedom. February, 1999 |
| Brenda Mullis ... I am from Atlanta,Georgia USA and have my own copy of the Braveheart movie. It is my favorite movie. February, 1999 |
| C Naismith ... Hi I'm from Australia, a long way away from Scotland, but I just wanted to add that the appeal of Braveheart to me was that in this world where everything seems material (i.e you grow up get married have a few kids then die) Braveheart reminds us that there are some things that are worth fighting for. To quote the movie "it's all for nothing if you don't have freedom" February, 1999 |
| CelticJDC ... Braveheart is a movie about how the Scottish rebels won their freedom from tyrannical English rule. It is historically accurate in the fact that it portrays the message that the English were horrible men to the Scots. This was true of that time and cannot be disputed, even by the best of English historians. I am a Scot. I am one who sympathizes with the struggle it took for farmers and artisans to win their God given freedom. The Scotsmen were wild men. Why do you think Hadrian's Wall was built? But it was such noble effort by mere men, to wage a war against the world's strongest power; and WIN. It shows how our Scottish history is rooted in a noble quest for what was right. This too cannot be disputed. So give me your best of your English historians. Certain facts cannot be disputed. David versus Goliath, a mouse versus a lion. The Scotsmen were a people who, although just farmers and not known for their philosophical points of view, knew the difference between right and wrong. They knew the English were wrong. They defended their rights that they were given divinely by God. Braveheart is a piece of Scottish history; of our history and will be forever. February, 1999 |
| Jody Gale ... Dear John and Linda, I have the movie Braveheart on video cassette and have watched it numerous times. Every time I am moved by his courage and passion to fight for what he believes in. It is my favourite movie of all time - even above Titanic. My 73 year old grandmother watched the movie and said, "They don't make men like that anymore!" Jody Gale Toledo, OH USA February, 1999 |
| Eugene M Sopko ... Hello, I just finished reading your newsletter about Sir William Wallace, Guardian of Scotland. I will go to the website and vote after I finish this e-mail. Like they say, history is written by those who have hanged heroes. Here in America, we have begun throwing away all our heroes that believed that freedom must be put above all else. Because of that, Gibson's Braveheart gave me a new hero to learn about and admire. I am a retired U.S. Army officer. That should let you know where I am coming from. I have gathered and read every book I could find about Sir William Wallace. Braveheart the movie, regardless of the errors being blown out of proportion by freedom hero-haters, sent out a clear message about freedom. I really enjoyed Peter Reese's "Wallace" because he used the last chapter of his book to attack those who do not believe freedom is all that important and that a "security blanket" provided by a Big Government, even a foreign government that enslaves them, is more desirable than freedom. As an American who, while growing up, had many heros. My number one hero now is "Braveheart", Sir William Wallace. He is a light in this world where we also seem ready to sacrifice our freedom for "a security blanket." Eugene M. Sopko February, 1999 |
| Joann P Montgomery ... People in my family think I'm nuts. I really identify with the movie and I'm not even Scottish (a wanna -be). I have watched it a lot, I'm not counting although finding your web site makes me think I haven't seen it as much as some of the others! I have two small boys and though I cannot let them see it (yet) they know all of the music. They say "this is a fighting scene mommy". Their is something so passionate (and I don't mean romantically) about this story. His dedication and commitment is truely astounding. Thanks for your web site. Please add me to your mailing list. Joann Montgomery February, 1999 |
| Jim Lauricella ... Four years since it was released and many good films later, Braveheart remains the gold standard by which all other films are measured. It is simply the most gut-wrenching film ever made. I've compared every film I've seen since it's release and can honestly say no other film compares. Please note the following: when Braveheart was released, my wife and I managed to steal a night out, away from the kids, house, etc.... We didn't go to the theater expecting much and we were not prepared for what we witnessed that night. Throughout the film the audience was visibly shaken. I think it caught many people by surprise, tears seemed to flow at key moments during the film. Near the end, I thought for sure Wallace would be saved ... he wasn't. After the closing credits, the lights went on. I will never forget what happened next: NO ONE MOVED. The people sat there, stunned, some in tears, staring at the screen. February, 1999 |
| Michelle ... Hi Braveheart fans! My name is Michelle and I'm 16 years old. I wish I could tell you how many times I have seen Braveheart, but I've lost count. Anyway, Braveheart will always be the best film in the whole world. I am not Scottish (although I wish I was!) and someday I would love to go to Scotland and learn about the history of William Wallace. I must admit, the first time I saw the movie, I just went to see Mel Gibson, but now I love it for more reasons then just him being in it. I still cry at the end when Wallace is executed and he sees Murron through the crowd. I thought that in the movie, the English would take away that marriage cloth he drops when he dies, but Robert the Bruce has it at the end! I have both soundtracks, one with talking from the movie. Please e-mail me with more BH info. BRAVEHEART IS THE BEST FILM IN THE WHOLE WORLD!!!!!! Michelle February, 1999 |
| Joao Daniel Ramos ... My name is Joao and I'm from Portugal! I'm writing you to thank you for the wonderful site that you´ve made. It's almost as good as the braveheart legend..... Keep up the good work! And if you could mail me some Braveheart issues I would be grateful! Joao Daniel Ramos February, 1999 |
| Erica Jiggins ... I just wanted to write to tell you how much I've enjoyed your website dedicated to Braveheart. I was against Braveheart when it initially came out, bashed it when it won multiple Oscars at the Academy Awards. Then last year, network television was showing Braveheart in two parts and I balked yet again. What was the big deal with this movie--get over it already. Then on night two of the broadcast, I caught the last 20 minutes or so. I was immediately sucked into it. I was mesmerized by it. When it was over, I ran to the video store the next day and rented it. Words cannot even describe how much this movie moved me. The romance, the betrayal, man's inhumanity to man, the loyalty, the whole concept of freedom. I absolutely loved it and tried to convince everyone I knew to watch it (keep in mind, most of my friends had no interest in this movie either and thought I was quite mad when I just wouldn't rest until they gave it a chance). I have watched it several times and purchased the movie soon thereafter. I cannot believe I was so blind in the beginning when it first came out. When the subject of "great movies" comes up, (and I am quite the movie buff) I never let a conversation go by without naming Braveheart enthusiastically. Thank you for creating such a site to honor this movie. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, February, 1999 |
| Michael Delaney ... Michael Delaney here..... Powerful, moving, inspiring, motivating, encouraging, magnificent, wonderful, simply the best motion picture ever made in the history of the world. Those who disagree are like unto the would be assassin, who, according to Steven "are not right in the head." My calling this film the best not a parroting of others. I realized this tangible fact as I left the scene of my first viewing of it. To live and die for freedom has never been so tremendously expressed in any other film excepting of course films depicting the life and death of Jesus the Christ. If, in real life, Mel Gibson is anything like the character he portrayed in
"Braveheart," he is truly an admirable fellow. IMHO, every other role he has January, 1999 |
| Ryan Stewart ... I haven't seen Rob Roy, but I loved Braveheart. I am partly Scottish, although I live in, and was born in the USA. And I have always loved that part of history. I don't know if it would have been better for Scotland if they had been free, but I think it would have, and even though I don't know about the current feeling about Braveheart there. HAIL TO AND INDEPENDENT SCOTLAND!
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| Graham St. John ... Hi! My name is Graham St. John. I'm a fourteen year old from Hanover NH. I saw Braveheart for the first time a week ago and I've been desperately wanting to see it again. I think Braveheart is the best movie I've seen in my fourteen years on this earth. Hats off to Mel Gibson! Ever since I saw it I've spent my time searching the internet for info on William Wallace. I just ordered the book by James MacKay on Wallace. I have one complaint though, I think they put the blood n' guts on a little too thick. There are some scenes like Murron's death, etc. that I think are truely important to the story which should have the gruesome detail they do. I think many of the scenes like the battle of Stirling don't need to show all that is shown. I, by no means, have a weak stomach but, I don't particulary like seeing people have various limbs severed. On the other hand, that could be the whole point of it. To show, what life was really like. I don't know what do you think? [We understand that a lot of footage of a fairly bloody nature was dropped from the final print because of concerns that it was too gory. We think that the balance was just about right - the movie gives a real 'feel' for what it must have been like in these sort of battles, without forcing people to cover their eyes for minutes on end. J&L]
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| Bonnie Bell ... Hi! I love the movie Braveheart, since I own the movie I watch it every night, I am absolutely hooked on the movie especially Robert the Bruce, Angus Mcfadyen. All the actors were just marvelous. Braveheart was one of the most magnifiying movies I have ever seen, I never realized Scotland was ruled by England. William Wallace was a very brave hero which literally died for his country. Robert the Bruce picked up where he left off, winning FREEDOM for Scotland. He believed in William Wallace and saw to it that his dream would come alive. Very Very Dynamic. Mel Gibson really out-did himself this time. Freedom should ring for every country! We need more William Wallaces in this world. I love the movie to death, it was fabulous!!! Happy Braveheart! Bonnie Bell Albany, Oregon
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| Codlin ... I almost feel like a virgin...I've only seen the movie three times!!! I watched it twice in a row the first night, and then the next night with my husband. He wasn't quite as impressed; could that have something to do with the fact that I kept saying, "Ohmigod, Mel looks SOOOOO good." I loved the rugged scenery, the music; but most of all, I loved the love. All of it. Wallace's love for his wife transcended time and space; yet he also was able to recognized the "need" for love in Longshank's daughter-in-law, and tend to that too. Some have said he was just a lusty soldier at that point, but I beg to differ. Wallace was the link to her sanity! He was all that her wussy husband (who, by the way, looked awful in that shade of blue!) was not, and most women NEVER get a chance to fulfill a fantasy like that. She did, and I say "You go girl!" Bottom line: LOVED IT!
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| Robert Tonge ... Braveheart, was I think the first time I have seen my Dad cry over a movie. I have only seen Braveheart 5 times as of today compared to the 50 times some people have seen it, but then I'm only 13 - I don't get around much. Anyway back to the subject, I really liked Braveheart, there are many things that make it appealing, the scenery, music, Mel Gibson, those funky accents. Also my (Half indian/half Scottish) Grandfathers' favorite saying, "If its not scottish, its crap". Sincerely The faithful Braveheart Fan Every man dies, not every man really lives. [Your Grandfather was obviously a perceptive man. J&L]
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| Sharon Sloan ... Dear Mr. and Mrs. Anderson, I want to tell you how many times I've seen Braveheart. Well brace yourself, about once every day! I love it and I'm so glad I'm not the only one. Thank you for the wonderful web-page!
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| Kenneth Campbell ... Scottish liberation/Gaelic liberation from English subjugation! That's the message of Braveheart. Cruichann!! Caioneach Caimbeul (Kenneth Campbell)
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| Wali Bukhari ... My name is Wali Bukhari! I am a Shiite Muslim! If any of you non-Muslims have read the history of the Shiite Muslims, you will read about the greatest Warrior of all times, ALI, THE LION OF ALLAH (GOD), SON OF ABU TALIB! And other great warriors like 2nd son of ALI, HUSSAIN, third son of ALI, ABBAS. and many many more. Out history is full of courage and valour. Never before a non-Muslim, came so close to touching my heart when it comes to bravery and courage. But this brave move by Mel Gibson, bringing to the world the history of one brave man, a heart so brave, that it makes the other hearts brave, made me think that yes! This person was someone who knew the meaning of life, because he looked straight into the eyes of death, and defied it, and denied any fear for it.
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| kkatchpole@aol.com... Simply that men have hearts along with great strength and intelligence (Rhode Island)
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| James Leonard ... Everything about Braveheart is appealing. Never before has a movie combined history, education, humor, violence, acting, directing, and everything else good about movies quite like this. There are characters you love (Wallace, Isabella, Robert the Bruce, Hamish, Stephen, Longshanks) and characters you hate (the leper, Mornay, Lochlan, Craig, the prince, Phillip, and pretty much everybody else associated with the English). This movie has some of the most moving, as well as the funniest, lines ever heard. Many of the funniest lines come from Stephen: "I didn't like him anyway. He wasn't right...in the head." "MY ISLAND!!!!" Even without all the things listed above, Braveheart would still be the best movie ever because of just one scene. This scene was when Longshanks throws Phillip out the window. This was easily one of the funniest things I've ever seen in a movie. Before he throws him out the window, Longshanks says the best line in the entire movie. First, he says, "If he can sack York, he can invade lower England," then Phillip says, "We would stop him," then... ************************************* "Who is this person who speaks to me as though I needed his advice?" ************************************* This is such a great line, I still haven't gotten over it. Unfortunately, there isn't enough room to write everything I like about Braveheart. These are just my favorite things. [You love Longshanks? OK it takes all kinds ... :) J&L] I don't respect Longshanks as a person, nor do I approve of anything he did. I just enjoyed his character in the movie. Many times, my favorite character in a movie winds up being the villain. I guess I could have worded that a bit better, though, rather than saying that Longshanks is one of the characters I love. [Now we understand! :) J&L]
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| Patrick Plante ... Excuse my bad English! But when I saw the film, I have recent someting of realy new, I don't know in English, but I have chair de poule. I studies in historia and Braveheart have sucite a lot of works in my classes. I live in Quebec, and we are pround to see someone win against the English (ist a joke, but they have a little bit of reality) So, my opinion is that is the best film that I saw.
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| Julie Bachman ... I have seen BRAVEHEART once, and I cannot wait to see it again! Mel Gibson deservingly won the Oscar for best director, and Best Picture. Gibson's direction provided an understanding of the Scottish people that went deeper than the HEART, it touched the soul. This movie had my attention from the minute it started to the minute it ended. A SPECIAL THANK YOU to Mel Gibson for not only providing a great form of art in the way of acting, but also for the recognition and understanding of the very BRAVE Scottish people during the 1300's. The message is clear and unmistakeable. To take the incentive to do what is right, even when everyone else says it's wrong shows immense strength and determination. Our young people could benefit by this message of hope and faith by applying it to their everyday lives, which would enhance the betterment of their future. William Wallace was a man who did not let the ideas and beliefs of others influence his own feelings of what was "right". I admire William Wallace not only for his courage, but for his strength of conviction.
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| isbister_k@ucen.flint.umich.edu... What could be more appealing than a man fighting for Scotland's freedom from the tyranny of English rule. Braveheart touched me in a way no film has since Schindler's List. Although both movies dramatize man's inhumanity to man, it also reveals man's best, in Sir William Wallace and Oscar Schindler. Mel Gibson and Braveheart are very much deserving of the Best Picture and Best Director Oscar. A fanastic and memorable film.
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| Bruce Campbell Johnson ... (of Dallas, Texas) ... I am enjoying your Web site, but wonder if you have problems, as I do, with various liberties Mel Gibson and the screenwriter have taken with the historical figure of William Wallace and the circumstances of his life. For example: Does it not bother you that Wallace is portrayed as a kilt clad Highlander, when if fact he was from the lowlands (somewhere just south of Glasgow I believe). Also, since the actual details of Wallace's greatest victory at Stirling Bridge make terrific storytelling, why change the facts and the character of the battle for the movie? And lastly, what was that all about with Wallace and the Princess of Wales? Was that really necessary or respectful to Wallace? The historical facts of Wallace's life are amazing and inspiring as they are. Why change them? What do you think ? [We feel that on balance the inaccuracies which have been introduced are justified on the basis that they contribute to the overall objective which was to produce a movie which was a work of drama and of entertainment, which at the same time was inspiring and emotionally gripping. Very few of the changes are 100% invention. Most have been brought in (relocated in time perhaps) from some other recorded events in Wallace's life or at the time of the Wars of Independence or from other events in Scotland's history. J&L]
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| Ed Spence ... I have seen Braveheart five times now. Am I lonely or something? ha ha. I am ever fascinated by the appeal of the movie in the USA. It is something that I continue to contemplate, over and over. I feel that the importance of the movie in the American mindset has to do with a number of factors: violence, truth, freedom and religion. The American pysche is heavily involved in violence and freedom. At the same time, America has a competing sense of truth/religion. I think that the movie is a combination of many elements. What do you think? [We can't speak for the appeal of the movie in the USA. The specific appeal in Scotland is probably the celebration and recognition (for the current generations) of our greatest national hero. The wider international appeal is probably linked to the portrayal of integrity, equality, and the fight for freedom. J&L]
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