Review of “The Patriot” (1998): A Low-Key Seagal Action Thriller
“The Patriot,” directed by Dean Semler and released in 1998, stars Steven Seagal as Dr. Wesley McClaren, a former immunologist turned small-town doctor in Montana. This action thriller revolves around a deadly viral outbreak instigated by a militia group, with McClaren racing against time to find a cure.
Plot Overview
The film’s plot kicks off when a deadly virus spreads through a small Montana town after a militia leader, Floyd Chisholm, deliberately infects himself and others during a courtroom confrontation. As the virus takes hold, McClaren discovers that the key to a cure lies in a specific wild herb known to Native American healers. Using this knowledge, he works to save his daughter and the town, leading to a climactic showdown with the militia.
Performance and Direction
Steven Seagal delivers a performance typical of his career, blending stoic intensity with action-hero prowess. However, the film marks a shift from his earlier, more action-heavy roles to a more subdued character focusing on intellect and medical expertise. L.Q. Jones and Camilla Belle provide notable supporting performances, though their roles are somewhat constrained by the screenplay.
Dean Semler, better known for his work as a cinematographer, directs with a focus on the picturesque Montana landscapes, which are beautifully captured but often fail to elevate the film’s overall impact. The direction tends to rely heavily on close-ups and medium shots, which some critics found limiting and less dynamic.
Cinematography and Production Design
The cinematography by Semler is a highlight, showcasing the natural beauty of the Montana setting. This visual appeal contrasts with the film’s otherwise standard production design, which includes typical small-town and medical facility settings. The use of practical effects for the viral outbreak scenes is competent but not particularly groundbreaking.
Themes and Symbolism
“The Patriot” touches on themes of environmentalism, the power of traditional medicine, and the threat of biological warfare. These themes, while relevant, are explored in a manner that can feel heavy-handed. The film’s climax, involving the somewhat implausible solution of distributing a herbal cure via helicopter, has been criticized for undermining the serious tone intended by its premise.
Critical Reception
The film received largely negative reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds an approval rating of 20%, with criticism directed at its lack of excitement and originality. Many reviewers felt that the movie failed to live up to the standards set by Seagal’s earlier work, citing a predictable plot and lackluster action scenes as major drawbacks. According to reviews on IMDb and Movie Mavericks, the film is considered one of Seagal’s weaker efforts, notable primarily for its transition from theatrical to direct-to-video releases.
Streaming Availability
“The Patriot,” the film is available on various streaming platforms in the United States:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rent or purchase.
- Apple iTunes: Available for rent or purchase.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Available for rent or purchase.
- Vudu: Available for rent or purchase.
Conclusion
“The Patriot” is a film that may appeal to die-hard Steven Seagal fans or those interested in action thrillers with a medical twist. However, its predictable plot, lack of dynamic action, and heavy-handed themes make it a less compelling entry in the genre. The beautiful Montana scenery and competent supporting performances offer some redeeming qualities, but overall, it falls short of making a significant impact.
