Mel Gibson expresses emotional reminiscence about the making of the film Braveheart

Mel Gibson, the iconic actor who starred as Scottish rebel William Wallace in the film Braveheart, recently returned to Ireland to mark 30 years since the filming of the Oscar-winning movie.

The event, held in Trim Castle, attracted fans from all over Ireland who were eager to meet Gibson and other Braveheart cast members. Among them were cousins Eileen Shields and Anita McGrath, who travelled from Galway and are fans of Gibson's films Lethal Weapon and Daddy's Home 2.

Gibson was welcomed by a crowd of excited fans, many of whom had dressed up as characters from the film. One eight-year-old, Maksim Okhotnikov, even came dressed as William Wallace. Gibson took the time to interact with his fans, sharing stories and memories from the filming.

During the event, Gibson credited then-Minister Michael D. Higgins for supporting the production that enabled him to film Braveheart in Ireland. The suitable terrain, horse-friendly grounds, and logistical advantages allowed many scenes to be shot there instead of Scotland. Michael D Higgins, who is now Ireland's president, made the filming of Braveheart possible.

Gibson also spoke about the Irish government's contribution to the film, mentioning that 1,600 army reserves were used as extras for the filming of Braveheart in Ireland.

The event raised 10,000 euro for the Irish Equity Support Fund. Anita McGrath, who travelled from Galway, crocheted a shamrock for Gibson as a good luck charm and he accepted it. Eileen Shields commented that Gibson has a "wicked wink in his eye."

While filming in Scotland was "fantastic", the ground was not firm enough for the big battle scenes. As a result, many scenes were shot in Ireland, contributing to the film's success.

James Horner, the composer of Braveheart's score, was inspired by Celtic music. Actor Kate O'Toole shared a story about her father being away for two years to film Lawrence Of Arabia, and mentioned the quicksand scene in the film still stays with her. Irish actor Patrick Bergin shared a story about his audition for Sleeping With The Enemy, in which he was chosen for the role due to the look in his eye.

Sevinc Ozogul, who lives near the hotel, was excited to see the castle from Braveheart when she moved to Trim. Ozogul named Mel Gibson as one of her favorite actors. Elaine Coyle, who travelled from Dublin, stated that watching Braveheart is a family tradition and a Christmas tradition in her house.

Gibson and several cast members also reunited with Gary Downes and Vinny McConnell, who worked as extras on Braveheart. The duo took memorabilia from the filming as a memento of their time on the set.

Braveheart won Oscars for best director and best picture, cementing its place as one of the most iconic films in cinema history. Gibson's portrayal of William Wallace will continue to inspire generations of film fans for years to come.

Mel Gibson expresses emotional reminiscence about the making of the film Braveheart