This film definitely earns its place as one of the must-see films of the last decade. Ejiofor and Fassbender turn in a couple of amazing performances. There are a lot of big names in the cast as well, but the majority of the roles are brief. It covers some hard-to-watch subject matter, but McQueen knows how to handle it without overwhelming audiences. Ultimately, it's an inspirational movie that everyone needs to watch.
4.5 out of 5. Here's my review: http://cinematicallyenigmatic.blogspot.ca/2013/10/12YearsASlaveReview.html
And here's an excerpt:
4.5 out of 5. Here's my review: http://cinematicallyenigmatic.blogspot.ca/2013/10/12YearsASlaveReview.html
And here's an excerpt:
12 Years a Slave is more than the sum of its parts. Throughout its runtime (which, frankly, is less than expected for a historical drama of this scope), McQueen spares no punches in showing the audience the brutality of the treatment endured by the victims of slavery. Some of it can be difficult to watch, but there's no sugar-coating the subject matter. Luckily, McQueen handles things with a deft touch so that none of the material overwhelms the viewer with its heaviness. Ultimately, the film isn't heavy-handed or emotionally manipulative -- it lets events stand for themselves. Consequently, audiences are left to focus the incredible true story of a man who endured intolerable circumstances yet never gave up hope or his will to survive.