Would you like to see Scotland, its picturesque green hills and rocky cliffs? What a ridiculous question, who on earth wouldn’t? You may be short on money, though. What to do in that case? You’re still able to see it thanks to Scotland-oriented films. Below some of them, in my opinion worth watching.

Braveheart

Undoubtedly the most popular film set in Scotland – probably this is the one that comes in mind, when somebody asks about cinematography and Scotland. You may describe that film in just one word: epic. It tells story of legendary Scots hero, William Wallace. His adventures are shown against a background of unrest connected with English rule in Scotland. Colossal scenes of battle can be watched, for example depiction of Battle of Stirling. Braveheart grossed 210 409 945 dollars. Many people started to be interested in Scotland’s culture and history after watching it. Soundtrack was composed by James Horner, and it is a true masterpiece as well.

Rob Roy

This film tells story of Robert Roy MacGregor, leader of small community living in 18th century Scotland. Big trouble start when he borrows money from local noble. After money is stolen, Rob Roy is forced to lead a life of an exile. Rob Roy was shot entirely on location in Scotland, mostly Highlands. Final sword fight between Rob and his nemesis Archibald is considered one of the best duels in cinematography.

Highlander

Famous fantasy film with Christopher Lambert and Sean Connery, it inspired both film sequels and television series. Main protagonist of series is Connor MacLeod, who fighted with his clan in 16th century and… died of mortal wounds. Well, almost died – it occurred, that MacLeod is immortal. He is banished from his clan and finally meets Ramirez, who is another immortal. Ultimately the action switches to present New York. Soundtrack by Queen is also worth mentioning.

Shallow Grave

Really funny black comedy about three friends (among them Ewan McGregor as Alex) living in Edinburgh, who rent a room to Hugh. After he dies of drug overdose, they discover a suitcase with large amount of money. Deciding to keep it, three heroes dispose body of Hugh in shallow grave. As you should already figured out, gangsters are after the cash. Series of unexpected, terrible events started to occur soon after.

Chariots of Fire

Fact-based film. It tells story of two athletes: one of them is Eric Liddell, other Harold Abrahams. Liddell comes from Scotland and is devout Christian. His faith is so strong, that he feels restrained from e.g. training on Sundays. They both represent Great Britain in 1924 Olympics in Paris. Musical score written by Vangelis won Academy Award for Original Music Score.

Trainspotting

Considered cult film, Trainspotting presents story of heroin addicts living in Edinburgh in the eighties. Despite drugs coverage, Trainspotting is not depressing at all. Almost all scenes were filmed in Glasgow, just a few in Edinburgh. It is also one of the best performances of Ewan MacGregor.

Macbeth

There are a lot of films based on The Tragedy of Macbeth, famous play written by William Shakespeare. The eponymous hero is general in the army of Duncan, king of Scotland. One day he meets three witches, who foretell his future. It is then when he becomes obsessed with desire to become a king and eventually it leads to many terrible events. Best films about Macbeth were directed by Orson Welles (1948) and Roman Polanski (1971).

Monty Python & the Holy Grail

Crazy comedy created by Monty Python group. It tells story of King Arthur in a bit different way than all legends known before. It contains hilarious scenes of Knights who say Ni, lethal Rabbit of Caerbannog and determined Black Knight. Definitely worth seeing. The film was shot in Scotland: around Glen Coe and Doune Castle.

[picture: sabrina's stash]

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