Importance Score: 40 / 100 🔵
Oscar-Winning War Film ‘Braveheart’ Now Streaming for Free
Fans of historical epics and acclaimed cinema can rejoice as Braveheart, the Oscar-winning war film, is now free to watch on multiple streaming services. This 1995 American historical drama, directed and produced by Mel Gibson, is readily available for viewing from the comfort of your home.
A Historical Epic of Scottish Independence
Braveheart stars Mel Gibson as the iconic Scottish warrior William Wallace. The movie portrays Wallace leading his countrymen in a valiant rebellion against King Edward I of England during the First War of Scottish Independence. This compelling narrative of courage and freedom has resonated with audiences for decades.
Critical Acclaim and Numerous Awards
Upon its release, Braveheart achieved widespread critical and commercial triumph. The film garnered significant praise for its breathtaking battle sequences, meticulous production design, powerful musical score, and compelling acting performances. Its success was further cemented by numerous accolades, including:
- Academy Awards:
- Best Picture
- Best Director
- Best Cinematography
- Best Makeup
- Best Sound Editing
- Golden Globe Nominations: 4
- BAFTA Nominations: 7
Further solidifying its cinematic significance, in 2010, the Independent Film & Television Alliance recognized Braveheart as one of the 30 Most Significant Independent Films of the past 30 years.
Rotten Tomatoes Score and Critical Consensus
The review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes reports a strong positive reception for Braveheart. Seventy-six percent of critics’ reviews are favorable, resulting in an average rating of 7.2 out of 10. The website’s critical consensus summarizes the film as:

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“Distractingly violent and historically dubious, Mel Gibson’s Braveheart justifies its epic length by delivering enough sweeping action, drama, and romance to match its ambition.”
The ‘Braveheart Effect’ on Scottish Tourism
Beyond its cinematic achievements, Braveheart notably boosted tourism in Scotland. A study revealed that the “Braveheart effect” generated an estimated £7 million to £15 million for the Scottish economy in 1996. This impact led to various national organizations actively promoting Scotland as a prime location for international film productions.
Where to Stream ‘Braveheart’ for Free
After being available for rental on streaming services, Braveheart is now accessible for free on several platforms, marking its 30th anniversary. According to JustWatch UK, viewers can currently stream Braveheart at no cost on:
- Disney Plus
- Channel 4
- Prime Video
Rental Options Remain Available
For those preferring to rent, Braveheart is also available for rental at £3.49 on platforms such as Apple TV, Sky Store, and Microsoft Store.