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| Benedict Cumberbatch and Chiwetel Ejiofor |
"12 Years a Slave" is a brutal, gripping reminder of one of the darkest times in U.S. history, a time when the insitution of slavery existed. Part pertinent history lesson and part captivating personal story, it's superbly acted over a fascinating but difficult story to watch. It tells the story of Solomon Northup (Chiwetel Ejiofor), a New York State citizen who was kidnapped and made to work on a plantation in New Orleans in the 1800s, initially working for a kind plantation owner (Benedict Cumberbatch) but who is then sold to a much more harsh slaveowner (Michael Fassbender) from whom he escapes again for his freedom after 12 years. Directed by Steve McQueen ("Shame") and written by John Ridley ("Red Tails") and based largely on Northup's account, it's a superbly acted, compelling and merciless story of a shameful period in United States history. The last act in particular is difficult to watch as Fassbender's torturous slave owner enters the picture, and while it is universally well-acted, Ejiofor and newcomer Adepuro Oduye are the most memorable and often very hearbreaking, as Northup and a fellow slave named Eliza, both of whom must endure beatings, whippings and all sorts of inhuman treatment. Fassbender and Sarah Paulson, as the brutal slaveowner and his equally harsh wife, are strong amongst a large cast that also includes Cumberbatch, Paul Giamatti, Paul Dano, Alfre Woodard and in a small part, co-producer Brad Pitt. Because of the film's somewhat excessive brutality and depressing storyline, the film isn't for everyone, but if you see it, there are many images that will stay with you long after the film is over. "12 Years a Slave" should garner a host of Oscar nominations, from the acting, to its ultimately triumphant story to the lush photography, the energetic score and its realistic sets and costumes, all of which are first-rate. "12 Years a Slave" is one of the year's best and most gripping films, and put this on your list to see before it starts winning some well-deserved awards.
Wes's Grade: A-
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