It’s that time of the year–films are making their debut in enough time to be recognized by the Academy. Just recently I caught a screening of the much-anticipated 12 Years a Slave. After watching all the trailers, listening to the interviews, and reading various commentaries leading up to the premiere, there was certain expectation that this film wanted to make a strong purposeful statement. I would be very surprised if this film and several of the actors/actresses are not nominated for various Academy awards.
12 Years a Slave is British-American historical drama (and a fictionalized adaptation of the 1853 autobiography “Twelve Years a Slave”) based on the life of Solomon Northup (played by Chiwetel Ejiofor). Northup is a free black man living in New York, who is abducted and sold into slavery in Louisiana. British director Steve McQueen takes on the task of adapting Solomon Northup’s text to the Hollywood screen. After watching, one might come to the conclusion that McQueen and screenwriter John Ridley have created a film that does not include any cinematic illusions or stunts, no reduced takes on a side story or characters, no time filling scenes–just a genuine film production.
12 Years a Slave is British-American historical drama (and a fictionalized adaptation of the 1853 autobiography “Twelve Years a Slave”) based on the life of Solomon Northup (played by Chiwetel Ejiofor). Northup is a free black man living in New York, who is abducted and sold into slavery in Louisiana. British director Steve McQueen takes on the task of adapting Solomon Northup’s text to the Hollywood screen. After watching, one might come to the conclusion that McQueen and screenwriter John Ridley have created a film that does not include any cinematic illusions or stunts, no reduced takes on a side story or characters, no time filling scenes–just a genuine film production.
Having seen other films by McQueen (i.e. Hunger and Shame), there was a certain expectation regarding his director style and delivery. In this film, he tackles a heavily controversial matter, slavery, in a certain unapologetic way. Scenes of brutal and unflinching violence, moments of tension, loss, grueling anguish (which will be difficult to watch), hope and survival make this somewhat of a dark fairy tale film. Through a healthy dose of solid acting, direction, cinematography, editing, sound design, and art design, Twelve Years provides the viewer with a beautifully and carefully crafted story that is, without a doubt, evocative. Although there have been several recent films which discuss the overarching theme of slavery (Amistad, Django Unchained, Glory, and even Lincoln) McQueen’s 12 Years interpretation provides not just historical content but a combination of solid performances from the cast, focused direction, and creative storytelling.
I would be remiss not to highlight some of the key actors/actresses and their performances in the film. You will definitely want to pay close attention to three characters in the film. British-Nigerian actor Chiwetel Ejiofor provides a stunning presentation of the protagonist Northup. Over time I have grown to admire his work as an actor, and it is clearly evident in this performance. His sense of urgency, anxiety, and drive to reconnect with his family is emotionally flawless. Even in his small nuances he is able to shine bright and make the role even more believable. Then there is the “cruel, villainous” plantation owner Edwin Epps (played by McQueen’s buddy, Michael Fassbender, their third filmic collaboration). He easily nails this role, manifesting much delight in punishing his “property”; in this role Fassbender matches even surpasses Leonardo DiCaprio and his portrayal of Calvin Candie in Tarantino’s Django Unchained. And finally, there is the performance of rising star Lupita Nyong’o who plays Patsey another slave on the Epps plantation. In many ways, her riveting and captivating performance comes very close to borrowing, maybe even stealing, the spotlight from Ejiofor. Nyong’o exhibits true passion through her role; heartache, tears, and anger are the basic elements and the core of her character. With this role we can see a star being born in newcomer Nyong’o.
Considering the social and economic significance of slavery in America’s history, there has been a dearth of serious films that have depicted the daily life and experiences of enslaved and indentured servants to date. This is remarkable considering that the echo of this institution continues to sound through America’s economic culture (as well as abroad). However, in the 134 minutes of playing time 12 Years a Slave provides an important universal lesson regarding the tragedy of inhumane treatment towards man.
Overall, 12 Years a Slave is a powerful, gripping film that is worthy of your attention. It should also be noted that this is not a film for amateurs, as it will bring out a plethora of emotions from every direction. Steve McQueen presents a dark and raw story that exposes everything without having to sugarcoat it. When it is all said and done, you must be prepared to take the courageous (yet necessary) ride of watching a brutal and graphic film that will challenge your thoughts, numb your soul, and provide a clear picture of what it means to fight for one’s freedom.
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