(c) Photofest / Getty Images
"Braveheart" is an exciting historical spectacle that focuses more on cinematic fun than historical facts *Note! Contains spoilers
2023.07.31
A wonderful battle scene. But there is no “bridge”⁉︎
The highlight of this film is undoubtedly the battle scenes, which feature a tremendous number of extras. In particular, the ``Battle of Stirling,'' in which the Scottish army repulses the British army, is truly a first-class production, and the production's skill in using various techniques to throw the audience into a melting pot of excitement is superb.
Looking behind the scenes reveals some interesting things. The film was originally shot in Ireland, not Scotland. The English and Scottish soldiers who appear in the film are both actual Irish Army soldiers who have changed their costumes and played different roles. I see, with this, the number that would normally require several thousand soldiers for both armies could be covered by half the number. Nowadays it has become commonplace to use CG to increase crowds, but back then it was natural to use human wave tactics.
On the other hand, what you should be careful about in this battle scene is that the "Battle of Stirling" is also commonly referred to as the "Battle of Stirling Bridge." If so, where is the bridge that should symbolize that? No matter how hard I searched, I couldn't find any rivers or bridges. There is only a vast plain. This was apparently a result of the creators' decision to ``forgo bridges'' as they wanted to create more dynamic battle scenes. (*)
"Braveheart" (c)Photofest / Getty Images
Normally, it would be normal to develop a concept based on historical facts and build on the bridge, but in Mel Gibson's case, he probably had a strong vision that he wanted to draw first, and he prioritized that. The story probably moves as an afterthought. Historical accuracy is no longer an issue. The main focus is on how to get the audience into a whirlwind of enthusiasm. That seems to be the way this work is.
By the way, in this scene, a small white vehicle can be seen reflected behind the charging cavalry soldiers (around 1:27:25). It's hard to miss unless you have very good dynamic vision, but if you're interested, please check it out. However, I would like to emphasize that these mistakes do not diminish the quality of this work.
Shocking development of Wallace and Isabel meeting
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