12 Years A Slave is an absolutely riveting film. After watching this film, there is no doubt that it deserved the Oscar for Best Motion Picture of 2013
12 Years A Slave is an absolutely riveting film. After watching this film, there is no doubt that it deserved the Oscar for Best Motion Picture of 2013. This film was fabulously directed by Steve McQueen, and the entire cast of the film was phenomenal. The film starred: Chiwetal Ejiofor, Dwight Henry, Michael Fassbender, Lupita Nyong’o, Benedict Cumberbatch.
The film follows the true story of Solomon Northup’s (Chiwetal Ejiofor) enslavement after living as a free black man in Northern U.S.A. As a very talented fiddler, Northup was tricked into believing that he was receiving an opportunity to perform. After meeting with his employers, they drugged him, and Northup woke up in chains. Solomon arrives at the plantation of Mr. Ford (played by Benedict Cumberbatch), where it is quickly discovered that Solomon knows how to read and write. As this puts Solomon and Ford’s lives in danger, Ford is forced to sell him to another planter named Edwinn Epps (Michael Fassbender). Fassbender presides over his plantation with an iron fist, and often beats/kills his slaves for under-performing. Solomon Northup spends his time on Edwinn Epp’s plantation, planning ways to regain his freedom.
What makes this film so moving is that it is based on a true story. Solomon Northup actually wrote a book entitled “Twelve Years A Slave”, detailing his enslavement. The screenplay is written by John Ridley, with finesse and expertise. The cast performed each scene as if it were actually happening – the film was so realistic. Steve McQueen didn’t think twice to display every horror of slavery, every image, from the crack of the whip to the scars from the lashings. Hats off to Lupita Nyong’o and Chiwetel Ejofor for playing such difficult roles with utmost fortitude.
If you have not seen this film, you must see it. If you have not read Solomon Northup’s book, you must read it. If you have any doubts as to whether or not this film is going to be worth your time, allow me to help you. This film was FANTASTIC, and will change the way you watch other films. 12 Years A Slave has set a new standard for motion pictures, one that will not be easily beat.
This film is rated R, and I do not recommend showing this to children. It displays graphic violence, nudity, and can at times be very tough to handle. I was personally brought to tears throughout this film (and I’m most certainly not ashamed to say so) and heavily endorse the entirety of this film.
