Amazing Grace (2006 movie)

Directed by: Michael Apted
Released: 2006
Country: United States, United Kingdom

Main cast: Ioan Gruffudd, Romola Garai, Michael Gambon, Benedict Cumberbatch, Albert Finney, Ciarán Hinds, Youssou N'Dour

Genres: Biographical, drama, historical

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

Review

William Wilberforce (1759-1833) was a leader of the movement to abolish slave trade. ''Amazing Grace'' is a film based on the works, and struggles of William Wilberforce.

''Amazing Grace'' is not a dull or boring film. It is rather a very interesting, enjoyable, and, at some parts, a sweet film. To many of us, movies based on true stories are ''boring'', but Amazing Grace is quite different because of it's wonderful presentation. It kept me looking at the screen from the beginning to the end.

The film starts in 1797, as William Wilberforce arrives in Somerset, Bath for a holiday. He meets his future wife Barbara Spooner, to whom he recalls his past. Through flashbacks, we see the struggles of William Wilberforce in order to abolish the slave trade.

I won't reveal more of the story, as it is quite interesting and sometimes, informative. I am sure that everybody will enjoy this film, as it is presented so wonderfully.

The cast was excellent. Ioan Gruffodd is excellent as William Wilberforce. Romola Garai is also very good as Barbara Spooner. So are Benedict Cumberbatch and Michael Gambon in the roles. All others, of course, were excellent. They all gave excellent performances.

''Amazing Grace'' is a very likeable film. It is a very touching film which also informs us how much cruelty was once shown towards the innocent Africans who were made slaves. There is a scene where Equiano shows William Wilberforce a slave ship. This scene is very moving as Equino describes the conditions in which the slaves were brought from Africa. There are quite a few other scenes which deeply touches our feelings.

And oh, the music is EXCELLENT! 

It is a very good film. Though there are several historical inaccuracies, the film tells us about William Wilberforce and his works and struggles. A highly recommended film.

3.5 out of 5.