Engaging story ... takes a little while to develop ...

Rating: Null/10 (24 November 2007)

This movie provided an interesting insight into Ugandan leader, Idi Amin. It used a fictional character and storyline to show us the many sides to Amin's personality. Although not much happened in the first 2/3 of the movie, it did redeem itself with an engaging, suspenseful plot. After watching the movie, I feel I have a better sense of Amin.
The story is about a young Scottish doctor who goes to Uganda to help the poor. However, through a chance encounter, he ends up becoming the personal doctor of Amin instead. His initial enchantment with Amin begins to wane as time goes on.
Whitaker's performance of Amin was outstanding. I completely forgot that I was watching a famous actor and completely believed that he was Amin. McAvoy's portrayal of the young, "speak his mind" doctor was also strong.
Although this movie takes some time to develop into an engaging story, the last third of the movie was ultimately was worth the wait. In the beginning, we are mostly exposed to the introduction of characters and situations. Things are happening, but there is no goal/suspense/etc. That occurs in the last third of the movie when the doctor starts to have problems and wants to leave.
If you have any interest or curiosity about the man Idi Amin, this movie delivers some insight into his character through a good story.