Replying to Historical Movies

Wondering what peoples opinions were regarding historical movies like Braveheart, Pearl Harbour, Rob Roy and so on.  I got into an argument regarding this today so figured i would throw the question out.  Do you think these movies are beneficial because they stimulate interest in events? Or do you feel that they are irresponsible and awful because they fabricated and distort events?  My debate was regarding Braveheart which i personally think is a terrible movie.  Filmed in Ireland with an Aussie actor and making up battles, etc.