Gibson followed through on that promise in 1995's “Braveheart,' which earned five Oscars (including best director and best picture) and marks its 25th anniversary with a commemorative Blu-ray release on June 16. I'm so smacked that you did that with your first film,' ' Gibson recalls in an anniversary interview with USA TODAY. 'And he said, ‘There’s only one way to go, man. “I spoke to him and I was like, ‘That was amazing. Today, Gibson admits it was fellow actor-turned-director Kevin Costner who planted the 'big' idea, after Costner helmed his sprawling 1990 Western “Dances With Wolves,' which went on to win seven Oscars.
Three hours of kilts, drama, brutally cinematic battle scenes and a literal cast of thousands were involved. LOS ANGELES – 'Braveheart' landed large on movie screens 25 years ago this month, with Mel Gibson pulling double duty, directing and starring as Scottish rebel leader William Wallace. Watch Video: 'Braveheart' turns 25: See Mel Gibson's William Wallace go to battle
