Sufficient to sadden my heart

Rating: 10/10 (31 March 2014)

There were few times within this movie where I didn't find myself disgusted, ashamed, and horrified at the evils that humans can inflict on each other.
As a 200lb, white male, former MMA fighter, I found myself moved to tears at the treatment and cruelty imposed on my fellow brothers and sisters within this film. To see a man kidnapped from his family and placed in slavery, a woman separated from her children all suffering such abuse. If movies are designed to elicit powerful emotions through their portrayal then this succeeded with me.
I know slavery has existed for a long-time, Greeks had slaves, Romans took slaves from Europe including northern Europeans. The most famous slave in history is perhaps Spartacus, who fought for his freedom against the Romans. Yet this portrayal set during pre civil war America once again highlights the incredible evils that society can allow itself to accept and consider normal, enforceable, lawful.
The sense of sadness I felt whilst watching this film, not just for Solomon but for all of the victims in this film, combined at times with rage and a desire to fight in defence of these trapped and fearful people.
Hopefully, despite this movie largely portraying white men and women in the role of oppressor, people will realise that racism and slavery have historically been colour blind with abuse against all races. Hopefully, we recognise from the evils of this period how we should all be united against such evils and seek to stand together in protection of all.
Thank you for this movie.