Final answer:
The French played a key role in helping the American colonists in the film 'The Patriot' through their military alliance, providing soldiers, naval forces, and military leaders.
Step-by-step explanation:
The French played a significant role in helping the American colonists in the film 'The Patriot'. The key contribution of the French was their military alliance with the Americans, which was secured after the American victory at the Battle of Saratoga in 1777.
This alliance with France provided the American colonists with much-needed military support, including soldiers, naval forces, and military leaders like the Marquis de Lafayette. The French contribution proved decisive in the defeat of Great Britain and ultimately led to American independence.