Review: Amazing Grace
Taking a break from the Oscar red carpet to add this review...
This film is based on the true story of William Wilberforce, the member of Parliament who was (eventually) responsible for the outlawing the slave trade in England. The struggle took nearly 20 years! This story focuses on his political and personal struggles to pass the legislation.
An outstanding cast: from Ioan Gruffud as Wilberforce, Albert Finney as John Newton, Benedict Cummerbatch as William Pitt, and Michael Gambon as Fox. This Cummerbatch was particularly compelling - I had no idea Pitt was so young when he became Prime Minister, nor that he had died so young. Cummerbatch was hot! He is next slated to appear in the film version of the The Other Boleyn Girl - I've just been reading the book and can totally imagine him as Carey! Can't wait for that one.
Anyway, my friend and I were very apprehensive about the film - and got even more nervous during the first half hour. The "Christian" message was pretty heavy handed - a lot about his "born again" experience and re-dedication to Christianity. But once you get beyond that, the historical saga begins to unfold, and we follow the journey of Wilberforce.
A nice historical. I still think it might have been better as a "Masterpiece Theater" presentation, but it was a pleasant way to spend an afternoon. Some good performances, beautiful costumes, a heart-warming story.
I'lll have a recap of the Oscars tomorrow. But I LOVE Kate Winslet's dress!
This film is based on the true story of William Wilberforce, the member of Parliament who was (eventually) responsible for the outlawing the slave trade in England. The struggle took nearly 20 years! This story focuses on his political and personal struggles to pass the legislation.
An outstanding cast: from Ioan Gruffud as Wilberforce, Albert Finney as John Newton, Benedict Cummerbatch as William Pitt, and Michael Gambon as Fox. This Cummerbatch was particularly compelling - I had no idea Pitt was so young when he became Prime Minister, nor that he had died so young. Cummerbatch was hot! He is next slated to appear in the film version of the The Other Boleyn Girl - I've just been reading the book and can totally imagine him as Carey! Can't wait for that one.
Anyway, my friend and I were very apprehensive about the film - and got even more nervous during the first half hour. The "Christian" message was pretty heavy handed - a lot about his "born again" experience and re-dedication to Christianity. But once you get beyond that, the historical saga begins to unfold, and we follow the journey of Wilberforce.
A nice historical. I still think it might have been better as a "Masterpiece Theater" presentation, but it was a pleasant way to spend an afternoon. Some good performances, beautiful costumes, a heart-warming story.
I'lll have a recap of the Oscars tomorrow. But I LOVE Kate Winslet's dress!
posted by Beth at 7:28 PM
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