When The King Goes Mad...

Rating: Null/10 (4 August 2013)

Kevin Macdonald's 'The Last King Of Scotland' tells the haunting story of Idi Amin from the perspective his doctor, Garrigan's point of view. Based on Giles Foden's novel of the same title, the book works as an excellent character study from an outsider's perspective and a chilling historical account (though slightly fictionalized). Before watching the film, I was a bit familiar with Idi Amin's history and what a powerful man he was but I didn't know about the extent of his atrocities. The film also depicts him as somewhat of a man of mystery. He suffered from paranoia which clearly indicates that he had mental problems.
Coming back to the film at hand. It is quite well made especially where visuals are concerned. However, I found the background score to be very intrusive at time reminding us that we're watching a Hollywood movie.
'The Last King of Scotland' showcases Forest Whitaker's talent. Whitaker breathes fire into the role and he portrays the various shades of Amin with gusto. He owns the part. James McAvoy is superb as well and he effortlessly displays Garrigan's transformation from an adventurous, carefree, brattish young doctor to a President's 'advisor' who is spoilt by money and power to a terrified victim enslaved by the man he looked up to. Gillian Anderson and Kerry Washington stand out in the supporting performances.
The film does primarily focus on Amin and Garrigan's relationship and the influence he had on him. I would have liked to have seen more about Amin's own inner conflicts (which the movie hints) and how he reigned the country and the geo-political implications of it. Yet, 'The Last King of Scotland' remains an intriguing character study of a ruthless, powerful and charming figure in history.