The Last King of Scotland (2006)

Rating: 9/10 (23 March 2009)

The Last King of Scotland (2006)  Having read the book a few years ago I was very intrigued to see this film, and I was very impressed. Whittaker's portrayal of Idi Amin is nothing short of spectacular as he embodies the charismatic sadist with every ounce of his flesh. McAvoy is also remarkable as the young doctor seeking a change from his mundane life in Scotland. The story is played out perfectly with Amin becoming increasingly erratic throughout and Garrigan's conscience being etched away at slowly but surely. It raises many compelling questions about what you'd do in that situation and the extraordinary conflict between Amin's affable, captivating personality and his merciless, genocidal tendencies is portrayed beautifully. The Ugandan scenery is shot beautifully and always seems to carry with it a sense of menace. This was a brilliant film that I loved every minute of. ********* 9/10.