Bravehearts

In 1280, Edward I, known as Longshanks, conquers Scotland following the death of the Scottish king who left no heir. He imposes English rule and brutal punishments on resistance. The stage is set for decades of conflict between Scotland and England.

As a boy, Wallace witnesses the execution of Scottish nobles by Longshanks. He soon loses his father and brother when they resist English control. The trauma and loss help shape his fierce resolve.

Wallace is raised by his uncle Argyle after being separated from his family. He grows up within the Scottish countryside under Argyle's guardianship. The kinship shapes his sense of loyalty to Scotland.

Longshanks grants land and privileges to his Scottish noblemen, extending English power over the Highlands. The policy includes the controversial jus primae noctis. Meanwhile, his son marries French princess Isabelle in a political alliance.

Years later, a grown Wallace returns to his homeland and secretly marries his childhood friend Murron MacClannough. Their union represents hope for a freer Highland life.

Wallace rescues Murron from a soldier, but she is captured and executed soon after. In response, Wallace and the locals overthrow the garrison and begin a wider rebellion.

Wallace defeats an English army at Stirling, showing the Scots can win on the field. He then invades England by sacking York, signaling the rebellion's reach beyond Scotland. The bold move shocks English command and rallies more supporters.

During the campaigns, Wallace meets Robert the Bruce, a future contender for the Scottish crown. They form a wary alliance that hints at a united Scottish resistance.

Isabelle is sent to negotiate with Wallace as a distraction from Longshanks' plans. She becomes enamored with him and helps foil an assassination plot, and they share a night together.

At Falkirk, English treachery and bribery by Longshanks cause Wallace's army to falter. Wallace discovers Bruce has aligned with the English. After the clash, Robert helps Wallace escape, vowing to never betray him again.

Wallace is captured in Edinburgh after a political betrayal, and Robert disowns his father. He is condemned to execution, ending his rebellion against English rule.

Isabelle tells Longshanks that she is pregnant with Wallace's child, ensuring Wallace's bloodline will outlive him. Longshanks falls silent as his health declines and the crown's fate hangs in the balance.

Wallace refuses mercy and is executed, shouting 'Freedom!' as he endures torture. In his final moment, he sees a vision of Murron in the crowd.

In 1314, Robert the Bruce leads Scotland to victory at Bannockburn. He becomes king and calls on the Scots to keep fighting in Wallace's spirit.