12 Years A Slave

12 Year A Slave (film poster:Lionsgate)

Having finally seen the film, and after the success of 12 Years A Slave at the BAFTAs the other night, I thought I'd write a little post about this spectacular film. If you're thinking about seeing this film, I'll make the decision for you: go and see it. If you're not interested in seeing it: go and see it... Because you should.

I'm not going to pretend this is a film for everyone, because it's not enjoyable in the traditional sense of the term. If you're having a bad day, you should probably wait until your mood is a bit better, and then allow this film to bring you back down again. Depressing, right? Yeah. Worse still: it's based on a true story.

But the feedback you see on the poster, five stars among words like "unforgettable" and "breathtaking" could not be more true. Ten minutes in, and the tone is pretty much set for the whole film, but you will not regret staying until the very end.

The word "harrowing" came to mind when I left the cinema. An absolute emotional rollercoaster, this film was emotionally exhausting, and at the same time utterly compelling. 

Films like this are so important because they bring to life the realities of our past. I was disgusted at times, and so ashamed that the persecution and torture depicted in this film actually happened, and was justified; it lays bare the cruelty of which human beings are capable. 

This film wouldn't have been the same without Chiwetel Ejiofor, whose spectacular performance allows you to live each moment alongside Solomon Northup. There were some beautiful scenes where the simplicity made for truly emotional viewing.

Any awards that this film, its director/producers, and/or its actors wins are 100% deserved. I haven't seen such a thought-provoking, emotionally charged and captivating film for a long time, and the fact that it is based on a true story makes it all the more compelling. You really shouldn't miss this.