The real mutiny occurs behind the camera

Rating: 5/10 (3 April 1999)

When Steven Spielberg's "Amistad" opened at the end of 1997, most critics were respectful but unenthused. The respect was likely inspired by the subject matter--an obscure historical event in which Africans on their way to slavery in America stage a mutiny, ultimately standing trial for their actions--while the lack of enthusiasm had to do with Spielberg's pedestrian handling of the story. I suspect the world's most popular filmmaker of performing some politically correct social service activity with this film. It began, after all, as a pet project of dancer/choreographer Debbie Allen. Perhaps eager to get on to his own project, "Saving Private Ryan," Spielberg did not give "Amistad" his all, believing the subject matter itself would carry the day. The PC aspect of the film is evident in the casting of Morgan Freeman, one of our greatest actors, who is given top billing for a role that requires him to do nothing but stand around looking concerned and barely uttering a word. Forgive me my cynicism, but I suspect Mr. Freeman is present only because he is black, whereas Mr. Spielberg is white and in need of credibility with those who, like Spike Lee, think only blacks are qualified to make films on African-American themes. Lee was critical of "Amistad," and of its emphasis on the white characters, most notably Matthew McConaughey who really has no place in this film.
Of course, the film's big problem is that it is dull, dull, dull, while John Williams' celebratory music score is out of synch with such a downbeat effort. Sure, the mutineers are found not guilty and permitted to return to their homeland, but slavery continues on in the colonies.
Among the actors, only Anthony Hopkins is given the chance to distinguish himself with a notable performance, but even he falls short of his usual standards. He lets the makeup and his accent do the work for him. The real mutiny in "Amistad" occurs behind the camera. A lame script and uninspired direction let the drama dissipate before our eyes.