On the basis of Braveheart alone, Mel Gibson has firmly established himself as a genius of cinema. In what may well be the greatest historical epic since Lawrence of Arabia, Braveheart chronicles the life of the Scottish freedom fighter William Wallace. Gibson's performance shines, and Patrick McGoohan is chilling as King Edward Longshanks. The story is dramatic, energetic, riveting, and unforgettable. Gibson also directed, winning an Oscar for his effort, and the film nabbed Best Picture. It's not for the feint of heart, however, as the expansive, breathtaking battle scenes are also quite brutal. Best viewed on the big screen or, lacking that, letterboxed.