you get back more that what it costs you

Rating: 8/10 (12 January 2014)

Everyone should watch this movie. Not just because it is entertainment but because I feel it is important to know and understand part of where we as humans have been. It will help you truly understand what some sacrificed in the past so some of us can have a better quality of life today. This particular subject mater of slavery helped shape the USA not all that long ago. For those that say it may be too uncomfortable to watch, I heard a retort summed up perfectly by Lupita Nyong'o who plays the role of Patsey in the movie. " It gave me more than It cost me." As for Lupita Nyong'o acting, it was FIRST CLASS! Give her an Oscar please. Fassbender was awesome too, I would expect nothing less. Chiwetel Ejiofor did a great Job. It seems his role is uniquely challenging not just because of living and acting out such an emotional part but because he plays an educated man who then dumbs himself down to play a slave, he has to master playing a role within a role. Mcqueen makes a masterpiece, pulling out many well thought out scenes. He delivers maxim effect from shot to shot. Some scenes say so much, explaining what he is trying to get across even when there is no dialogue. This movie will give you the opportunity to be shocked, cry, smile and empathise. The viewers at the cinema I watched it in gave a brief ovation when it was over. This move reminded me of what man can be capable of. I am talking about negative capabilities and I am talking about positive capabilities despite negative treatment. The word negative is barely the tip of the iceberg in terms of a description of slavery, as is this glimpse into slavery told through the story of Solomon Northrop. Every painful and beautiful moment stirred thoughts in my mind. Some thoughts wider than the scope of this move. I was able to reflect of the world we live in now which is still full of its own forms of slavery in this modern age. I reviewed my understanding of man's accomplishments and recognised that we still have a long way to go. I am thankful to those that sacrificed and died to help bring slavery to an end allowing my life to be better than theirs. It is our tern to build on those advancements so that freedom continues and improves for those that will live after us. I happen to be mixed race. 50% White and 50% black. I have carefully stayed away from writing anything that could seem pro one race or another because for me this film is not about colour simply injustice. I would like to finish by acknowledging the excellent job done by all those involved in making this film. Thank you