Great performances and directing, moralizing plot

Rating: 7/10 (10 January 2014)

Virtually every country has black spots in its history - some countries have them currently, too, including slavery (now hidden or under some other name/form). Depicting this together with understandings prevailing in the 19th century provides a good basis for dramatic events and intense human relations, where different races/genders/backgrounds approach or collide.
Undoubtedly gifted Steve McQueen has fully exploited those opportunities plus has managed to attract famous and talented cast even into short supporting roles (Benedict Cumberbatch as William Ford, Brad Pitt as Samuel Bass, Paul Dano as John Tibeats, Paul Giamatti as Theophilus Freeman). But the strongest and longer visible roles (with close-ups of faces) are performed by Chiwetel Ejiofor as Solomon Northup, Michael Fassbender as Edwin Epps, Lupita Nyong'o as Patsey; I would not be surprised if any of those achievements is honored with Golden Globe and Academy Award.
As for the script, the beginning is protracted and confusing, and I felt an attempt to burden the white with additional guilt and shame for the past, for their forefathers, especially in case of those living in the Southern states. At the same time, all great nations have based their wealth on penal servitude, slaves, overseas natives etc.
I have to admit that Django Unchained by Quentin Tarantino impressed me more. And last but not least - I wonder why a panoramic movie about US history had to be accomplished by Brits mostly...