The Patriot

The Patriot is currently streaming in Australia on Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, and in the US on Peacock Premium and Philo, and it earns its set pieces rather than just delivering them. The length is exactly right for the story it is telling — nothing rushed, nothing dragged out. Its 7/10 TMDB score, built from 4,379 ratings, reflects a title that consistently delivers. Mel Gibson is the obvious draw, but the supporting cast gives the action its context. Put it on tonight on Netflix and see for yourself.

Whatever else is competing for your attention this week, The Patriot is worth clearing space for. The choreography in The Patriot serves the story instead of interrupting it. After proving himself on the field of battle in the French and Indian War, Benjamin Martin wants nothing more to do with such things, preferring the simple life of a farmer. But when his son Gabriel enlists in the army to defend their new nation, America, against the British, Benjamin reluctantly returns to his old life to protect his son. Mel Gibson and Heath Ledger lead a cast that gives the action real stakes. It hit screens in 2000. What separates The Patriot from disposable action entertainment is character work that survives the explosions. There is real craft here, even in the moments that do not fully land.

The Patriot is the kind of thing you put on to unwind and find yourself sitting forward twenty minutes in. It rewards viewers regardless of what else is in their watch history. Best experienced as a single, sustained watch from start to finish. Mel Gibson brings a physicality to the role that elevates every set piece. Action that earns its sequences rather than just delivering them.