Film Discussion: The Patriot (R)

Director Roland Emmerich went from "Independence Day" to the War for Independence with this sweeping epic about a pacifist (Mel Gibson) who takes up arms against the British in 1776 South Carolina. Gibson is sensational as Benjamin Martin, who seeks an "alternative to war" – until a British officer guns down his teenage son. Heath Ledger co-stars as another son who enlists. Rated R. Recommended for adults.