this evening i headed down to the metreon to screen a new film, "Amazing Grace" starring Mr. Fantastic. Yes, the unpronouncable Ioan Gruffudd was in attendance (I know I butcher Indian names, but Welsh names… I hav absolutely no clue how to begin to pronounce.) Executive Director Graham Leggatt of the SFFS did a reasonable job of approximating Ioan's name in the Q&A.
The movie: Well, I had no idea what to expect from the movie, and I didn't even really look at the name of the movie when I decided to go. Michael Apted was a director whom I knew, so I decided to go to the screening. Why not? A free movie, on a Monday night. I met a few nice folks, and had a pleasant chat with the kind woman who watched my bags as i ran to the bathroom before the show (thanks Nancy!) but to be honest, for me going to the movies is about sitting alone in a room with strangers and embracing the magic of film.
I was pleased that this movie was a period movie—it's the kind of thing that I would rarely choose as my first choice, but is the sort of movie that is pleasant surprise. And it features a fantastic cast with lots of parliamentary debates and intrigue. I do love the Parliament, it's my ideal of what a governing body should be: intelligent, raucous, humourous. Or at least it is in the movies.
the story is about William Wilberforce and his role in the passage of the slave trade act. it's well told, and it's hard not to miss the political message for our times: that opposition to the governing party in time of war does not equal betrayal of your country–indeed, it is often the most patriotic thing you can do.
the story is inspiring without being overly dramatic. and the role of Wilberforce's religious experience is not overbearing. There's a love interest too, that's satisfying but also serves the story.
The sets and period are most satisfying, but it's not slavishly done. There scripted dialog has the right mix of modern phrases and the requisite periodspeak that lends the right amount of authenticity.
And the supporting actors: Michael Gabon, Toby Jones, Ciaran Hin, Albert Finney. Absolutely fantastic. These small roles are worth the price of admission.
Apparently this movie opens in a couple weeks. If you enjoy watching crotchety old Englishmen and who doesn't?), this is the movie for you. Fans of great acting should also queue up. It's a meaty and satisfying movie-going experience, and I highly recommend it.