Was that for real or just reel?

As members of today’s society, movies play a large part in our lives. No one can deny this, for even in college classes and lectures we are finding references to the latest blockbusters. Everyone loves movies. The question if those movies are accurate portrayals of life, however, is another matter.

It seems that history enthusiasts, professional historians, re-enactors, history teachers and students all love to sit and discuss the accuracy of the newest historical movie.  Every scene and detail is placed under extreme scrutiny, and if found wanting, either rejected as garbage or made subject to jokes and ridicule. No movie it seems has had more than its fair share then Mel Gibson’s The Patriot. Sure it looks good, makes you feel involved as all good films should, but as far as historical accuracy goes, the writers missed their mark.

Now don’t get me wrong, it is a wonderful movie and one of my favorites. I wouldn’t suggest it for its accuracy, but it gives a glimpse into life in that time. If you want to see the WORST Revolutionary War movie of all time (in my opinion), then I would recommend Revolution with Al Pacino. This movie was so bad that I only watched it once, and years ago, and have never had the desire to view it again.

Going the opposite direction, Last of the Mohicans with Daniel Day-Lewis is probably the best movie in my library. With its realistic battle scenes, accurate uniforms and weaponry, and showing the mindsets of the people involved, this movie really lets you see the Seven Years War in upstate New York.  Sure, it doesn’t stay as true as it could have to the original work by James Fennimore Cooper, but it is entertaining along with its information.

So if you’re looking for a great film that portrays the people of the 1750’s, Last of the Mohicans all the way. If you just want to be entertained and not really learn anything, then The Patriot. And if you just want to waste a couple hours of your life or take a nap, Revolution is your pick.