The Patriot Portfolio Piece by Grayson Rogers
The popular 2000 film, The Patriot, dives deep into many components of the American Revolution; how many battles were fought, how individuals came together through the hardships they encountered, and what life was like for many during that time in history. One of the most prominent characters that the film focuses on is Benjamin Martin, played by famous actor Mel Gibson, a former soldier who has to count on his previous training to get him and his loved ones out of many difficult situations throughout the film. While many things in the film do change, such as the location of the events, one thing remains the same for the entirety of the film: Gibson’s character continuously proves himself to be an essential part of the American’s battle plan, as well as an essential part of making the movie what it is.
From the start of the film, it becomes clear that Benjamin Martin is going to be a crucial character in the many battles to come for the Americans. Quickly, Martin’s military background is revealed. One of the most prominent examples of this is towards the beginning of the film, after the British army has come to his family’s house. In short, the British do nothing but completely ransack the place, kidnap the oldest son Gabriel, as well as killing one of Martin’s sons, Thomas. In an attempt to get Gabriel back and get some sort of revenge, Martin sets out with his two youngest sons, Samuel and Nathan, to catch up and fight the army that just paid them a visit. Nearly single handedly, Martin takes on the entire British army, killing all of them and rescuing his son. Not only does Martin find victory in that example, but he continues the victorious streak in all of the battles to come. This is just one example of how Benjamin Martin was a crucial character in the film for the Americans in terms of battles with the British.
Benjamin Martin not only greatly adds to the film on the battlefield, but he also adds an element of humanity in a film that contains some very inhumane topics. The film illustrates how his relationship with his children grow throughout the story. For example, at the beginning of the story, Martin has a tense relationship with his eldest son, Gabriel. However, as the film goes on, their relationship quickly grows into a loving father-son relationship as they attempt to navigate the rough terrains of war together.
Whether it was on an intense battle field, or a solemn moment with family, Benjamin Martin continuously added great value to the film The Patriot. His character learned lessons that we all learn, such as family is more important than anything, he showed great bravery on the battlefield for his country, and most importantly, he always looked out for his family above all else.
The Patriot by Claire Riddle
The Patriot incorporates the theme as well as defines American Exceptionalism. Mel Gibson represents this theme throughout the entirety of this movie. Unity and family is relatable with viewers and I believe relates back to the theme of American Exceptionalism.
Mel Gibson’s character, Benjamin Martin, is a father of a big family during the Revolutionary War. His son wants to enlist in the army and Benjamin did not agree with this. Soon after the son enlists, a downward spiral for his family begins. Benjamin Martin’s younger son ends up shot and their house is burnt to the ground. Benjamin Martin’s kids move in with their aunt, and this house is raided and burnt to the ground as well. The British are to blame for all of this.
Martin is described as a “ghost.” He acquired this name after killing many soldiers who were on their way to hang his older son. This showed the importance of family to Benjamin Martin and that no one should mess with them. None of the soldiers made it, therefore Martin is called a “ghost” because no one had a first hand account of what happened.
This movie is full of perseverance from many different characters but especially Benjamin Martin. Whenever there was a major or minor setback, he would not let that affect his mood or get in the way of his goals. Benjamin Martin begins the movie showing negative emotions about war. By the end of the movie, he is a war hero. He leads America to victory over the British.
Watching the Patriot, there are a few major themes you can take away without even meaning to. This movie does a great job of incorporating unity and family as a reflection of how the viewers most likely think America should be portrayed as.
