Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom-2013

Director Justin Chadwick

Starring Idris Elba

Scott’s Review #169

Reviewed September 13, 2014

Grade: B

Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom (2013) recounts the true story of South African leader Nelson Mandela, chronicling fifty-plus years of his life from 1942 to 1994.

It shows his passion for freedom and dedication to anti-apartheid; his battles with the government; and his struggles to survive in prison.

The film is shot beautifully; the cinematography is gorgeous, and the South African landscape is breathtaking.

I enjoyed the chemistry between Idris Elba and Naomie Harris, who plays Nelson Mandela and his second wife, Winnie, respectively, and Elba, in particular, is very well cast.

He is charismatic, handsome, calm, and perfectly encompasses the famous leader’s mannerisms.

It was interesting to watch a biopic that spanned such a long period and, in a way, served as a history lesson, especially for viewers young enough not to remember the details of Mandela’s life.

I was too young to know of all of Mandela’s trials and tribulations.

For example, I knew he was imprisoned and released, but I did not know how long he had spent in prison and away from his wife and family.

I got the sense that factually, some details were either embellished or skipped over entirely.

I’ve heard this criticism from moviegoers regarding Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom.

A few drawbacks- this film is VERY Hollywood. It has a glossy feel. I would have preferred a bit more grit.

Was there any sexual abuse while Mandela was imprisoned? Was Winnie abused while she was in prison? Why was the lack of sexuality in Mandela’s and Winnie’s marriage in later years alluded to, but never explored?

This is a negative for the film.

Since the film is rated PG-13, it tones down aspects a feels very safe.

Also, for such a perfect shot and well-designed film, the makeup is dreadful! It was apparent that Idris Elba was wearing a glued-on, unflattering grey wig.

Furthermore, the woman playing Mandela’s mother was clearly the same age as, if not younger than, Elba, with dyed grey hair. This aspect feels poorly produced.

Overall, Mandela: A Long Walk to Freedom (2013) is a good film, largely because of its acting and look, but it is not a great one.

Oscar Nominations: Best Original Song-“Ordinary Love”