Remembering Braveheart premiere in Stirling with Mel Gibson and kilted warriors (2024)

When asked to think of one film representing Scotland, many people will automatically turn to Braveheart. The epic war film documented - with a fair bit of historical licence - the life of legendary Scottish warrior William Wallace.

The 1995 film is packed with memorable quotes, fierce battles, one truly incredible speech and, of course, Mel Gibson's questionable Scottish accent.

From June to October 1994, the film was shot on location in Scotland and Ireland before making its debut on screen in September the following year. It was an instant hit, and not just in Scotland, as it bagged five Oscars, including the coveted Best Picture and Best Director honours for Gibson.

Although scooping five Academy Awards was a very special night, for many Scots it is the premiere that is most fondly remembered. The initial showing brought a bit of Hollywood glamour to the streets of Stirling on an ordinary autumn night, and it is fondly remembered by locals and cast members.

On the magical evening of Sunday, September 3, 1995, thousands flocked to the town (as it had not yet been given city status) in an attempt to feast their eyes on the film's stars, with Gibson the main attraction.

Gibson expressed his astonishment at the response from fans and revealed he had always planned to have the premiere in Stirling, with the university eventually chosen as the location. Speaking to our sister title, the Stirling Observer, he said: "I had always planned that, as it is central to Wallace's success. I was flabbergasted. I really did not expect such a welcome. I was knocked over by it.

"Something like that is a great reward. That's why we work and make films. I loved filming in Scotland and I hope to be back. There are very few places better to work and we had a wonderful experience here."

But the dazzle didn't end there. Alongside Mel Gibson, Angus McFadyen (Robert the Bruce), and James Cosmo (Campbell) at the premiere and £700k after-party at Stirling Castle were Catherine Zeta Jones, Patsy Kensit, Dame Diana Rigg, ex-Scotland rugby captain Gavin Hastings, and motor racing icon Sir Jackie Stewart.

Stirling Castle was buzzing with festivities - from fireworks to replica Claymore swords, medieval market stalls, and costumed entertainers. Mel himself took to the dance floor during the ceilidh and at one point was flanked by kilted warriors.

To cap it all off, Mel surprised guests and got a big laugh when he impishly gave Stirling Provost Pat Greenhill a peck on the cheek after being presented a Wallace Sword letter opener.

In 2020, 25 years on from the event, locals were happy to share their memories. Lynnsey Mcphee shared: "I was lucky to be at my gran's she lived at St. John Street. We were out in the garden when the limos started to head to Stirling Castle and I got a wave and smile from Mel Gibson."

Caroline Crossan recalled: "That was a great day - loved it. Ally McCoist running in late as usual to the chants of Super Ally, was great fun."

Former police officer David Johnston Ostler revealed that around 20 cases of 'Braveheart Labelled Whisky', intended for the post-premiere party at Stirling Castle, were stolen from a courier's van in the early hours. He wrote: "How do I know this, because I led the police team who caught the thief's getaway car and arrested him."

He further added that the whisky was recovered and served at the party, with only one bottle retained as evidence.

Marie Shiach Forrest humorously recalled being at the premiere not for the film's stars but for a different celebrity. She said: "I was at the university with my friends. Although we had a banner for Dan Falzon (Neighbours actor) think I got his autograph."

Marriana Caserta's recollections of the day were dominated by her surprise at Mel Gibson's height, while Isobel Kelly commented on how he was "even more handsome in the flesh".

The film boosted the careers of numerous Scottish stars and continues to be a cherished memory for Scots and movie enthusiasts worldwide. However, it will always have a unique spot in the hearts of those Stirling residents who were fortunate enough to witness that extraordinary night.

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