Love Braveheart? Tonight’s TV Spotlights Another Scottish Legend You’ll Adore!

Two years after captivating audiences in Schindler’s List, Liam Neeson pays tribute to another historical hero: Robert MacGregor, a noble Highlander who fought to defend his honor against treachery and savagery.

Released in 1995, Michael Caton-Jones’s Rob Roy is set in Scotland at the dawn of the 18th century. Robert McGregor, also known as Rob Roy, leads a clan of about a hundred villagers who, despite their dire poverty, stand united. He shares his life with the gentle Mary.

However, one day, Rob Roy makes the mistake of borrowing a thousand pounds from the Marquis of Montrose, a cynical nobleman, to purchase cattle. Cunningham, Montrose’s loyal and cruel henchman, who is an expert swordsman, decides to steal this sum. Outraged by this betrayal, Rob Roy embarks on a fierce struggle against a corrupt and treacherous British nobility.

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This Scottish saga, set against a backdrop of romance, is brought to life by a passionate Liam Neeson. Jessica Lange, who plays his great love, adds a touch of sweetness to this lively and fervent plot. Meanwhile, John Hurt portrays a stony Marquis, and Tim Roth, an relentless swordsman.

A Scottish Version of Robin Hood

Rob Roy follows in the tradition of great historical cinema classics like Kevin Reynolds’s Robin Hood, but especially the iconic Braveheart by Mel Gibson, which was released just four months after Caton-Jones’s film.

Much like William Wallace, Robert McGregor pays homage to a symbol of Scottish independence. This also leads to memorable battle scenes, such as the final duel conducted in silence, where only the shrill sounds of clashing swords can be heard.

Often compared, Rob Roy and Braveheart share similar themes, offer lavish period costumes and landscapes of the Highlands, feature stirring traditional soundtracks, and more.

So, if Braveheart is among your favorites, there’s a good chance you’ll also be captivated by the adventures of this other Scottish legend.

Tonight on Arte at 9 PM