Enthusiasts of the film Braveheart and acclaimed actor Mel Gibson, who starred in the movie, gather to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its production alongside the movie's cast.
In the picturesque town of Trim, County Meath, a large crowd gathered to meet the cast members of the acclaimed film, Braveheart, including Mel Gibson himself. This reunion was a nostalgic moment for many, as Braveheart, while about the Scottish hero William Wallace, was predominantly filmed in Ireland.
The Emerald Isle's dramatic landscapes, experienced crews, and tax incentives made it an attractive choice for over 80% of the movie's iconic battles and castle scenes. Key Irish filming locations included Trim Castle, Bective Abbey, and the Curragh in Co Kildare, with Ardmore Studios in Bray, County Wicklow, providing the backdrop for interior scenes.
Trim Castle, a 12th-century Anglo-Norman castle, was transformed into the walled city of York, complete with gates and streets. Modern elements like telephone poles were discreetly masked during shooting to maintain the medieval effect. Bective Abbey, located east of Trim, and the open plains of the Curragh were also featured in the film.
The choice to film primarily in Ireland surprised many upon the film's release, but cast members and extras reflect on the scale and dedication during filming with fondness. Many appreciated the breathtaking authenticity of the Irish countryside standing in for medieval Scotland, which helped immerse them in their roles.
Mel Gibson and the crew celebrated the film’s 30th anniversary with some return visits to these locations, highlighting their continuing significance. Eamonn Moloney, an FCA member who was part of the filming, and others like Gary Downes and Vinnie McConnell, reminisce about their experiences.
Downes, who was 16 during the filming, recalls it as being during one of the hottest summers, with early morning starts at 4am. McConnell and Downes used peat moss to create a dirty look for their battle scene roles in Braveheart. The craic in the barracks at night time during the filming was great, according to Downes.
Panavision cameras were used to capture the film's memorable scenes, and members of the FCA (Fórsa Cosanta Aitiuíl) were used as battle scene extras. Fans and extras from the film queued for up to 90 minutes to get film posters and other memorabilia signed by the cast.
John Mitchell, from East Renfrewshire, Scotland, travelled over for the Braveheart celebration, believing that Wallace was born near Paisley, Scotland, around the year 1270. The celebrations were part of the King John Summer Prom being held in the town over the weekend.
Today, the Irish countryside and historic sites like Trim Castle remain a major part of Braveheart's legacy, deeply tied to the film’s visual and emotional impact, supported by memories from those involved during production.
Over the years, the Irish countryside and historic sites like Trim Castle have remained significant in the legacy of the movie 'Braveheart', serving as a backdrop for many memorable scenes and contributing to the film's authentic medieval ambiance. Reminiscing about their experiences, cast members and extras share fond memories of the entertainment industry, movies-and-tv, and celebrities that converged in Ireland during the film's production, with a particular emphasis on the contributions of Irish crews and landscapes.
