8. Braveheart (1995)
Mel Gibson's 1995 epic Braveheart remains one of the most popular Scotland-set movies ever made, despite being mostly filmed in Ireland. The movie was nominated for ten Academy Awards and created widespread interest in Wallace, Scotland and Scottish history. As a result of the movie's lasting legacy, Braveheart claims a spot on our list. The movie is loosely based on the epic poem by fifteenth-century writer Blind Harry, which was in turn loosely based upon the life of real life historical figure William Wallace. Wallace, played by Gibson, led a rebellion against English rule in the fourteenth century. The Oscar-nominated screenplay by Randall Wallace embellishes and romanticises real-life events and, whilst it has been criticised for historical inaccuracies, it has also been praised as being both action-packed and dynamic. Braveheart's romantic depiction of Scotland, its vibrant storytelling and Oscar winning cinematography will result in many viewers adoring this film. The movie's most famous moment, in which Wallace declares the English 'may take our lives, but they'll never take our freedom!' is now one of the most-quoted lines in movie history. For fans of epic movies, Braveheart is definitely a must-see.