12 Years a Slave

9

sammieteeJan 25, 2014

Very powerful movie. It was extremely well done but very hard to watch. Ejiofor's preformance was incrediable and Fassbender's performance as a cruel slave owner makes you cringe. The ending was heart breaking and happy at the same time. IVery powerful movie. It was extremely well done but very hard to watch. Ejiofor's preformance was incrediable and Fassbender's performance as a cruel slave owner makes you cringe. The ending was heart breaking and happy at the same time. I recommend this movie for anybody who will be able to watch them. It's hard but it's worth it.… Expand

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9

Movie1997Oct 19, 2013

This is one those movie experiences where it's just so good, but it's just incredibly tough to watch! It's such a moving experience. It was filled with tremendous acting, especially from Chiwetel Ejiofor and Michael Fassbender! Plus it showedThis is one those movie experiences where it's just so good, but it's just incredibly tough to watch! It's such a moving experience. It was filled with tremendous acting, especially from Chiwetel Ejiofor and Michael Fassbender! Plus it showed a great direction coming from Steve McQueen! Overall, it's one of the most powerful movies I've ever seen! Fair warning though, watch at your own risk.… Expand

7 of 13 users found this helpful76

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9

NBAluke579Jan 2, 2014

12 Years a Slave is an exceptional film and a triumph of modern storytelling. The movie easily could have turned out to be nothing but "oscar-bait", but the extremely talented visionary director Steve McQueen never allows this to happen and12 Years a Slave is an exceptional film and a triumph of modern storytelling. The movie easily could have turned out to be nothing but "oscar-bait", but the extremely talented visionary director Steve McQueen never allows this to happen and turns this into one of the most powerful,unflinching films in recent memory.This film is every bit as brutal as his previous two features Shame and Hunger, and it is never afraid to go the extra mile to show us the atrocities of slavery and human suffering. The cinematography is rich, and the performances are outstanding most notably from Ejiofor and Fassbender who truly immerse themselves in their roles. 12 Years a Slave earns my highest praise, it is an incredible movie and very much worth at least one viewing.I can't give it any less than a 9/10.… Expand

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9

WalkingDead5640Jun 8, 2014

Very powerful and it definitely deserves all the praise and awards. A truly real, well crafted, extraordinary piece of cinema, though it may be a hard watch with the racial themes. I love how director Steve Mcqueen can capture a very lengthyVery powerful and it definitely deserves all the praise and awards. A truly real, well crafted, extraordinary piece of cinema, though it may be a hard watch with the racial themes. I love how director Steve Mcqueen can capture a very lengthy shot and make it so powerful and grand in his movies. This movie is epic and well acted.… Expand

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9

AlexanderLuthorAug 1, 2014

This was a fantastic film, well written and tremendous performances from all the stars. Far better film than I went in expecting.....................

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9

gracjanskiNov 1, 2022

The movie is touching of course and well made. The actors are great, especially Michael Fassbender.
The only problem of the movie is, that it is one-sided and the characters are not very detailed. So sometimes I didnt like the movie, becauseThe movie is touching of course and well made. The actors are great, especially Michael Fassbender.
The only problem of the movie is, that it is one-sided and the characters are not very detailed. So sometimes I didnt like the movie, because it was like a propaganda against Whites.… Expand

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9

carloswalnutsFeb 4, 2014

Es casi una obra maestra, mi unica critica negativa es en los momentos largos de secuencia que muestra
el sufrimiento y algunas escenas que pueden volverse muy tediosas.

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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9

bmaster4616Sep 6, 2014

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It's a viewing only for those who have the stomach, but the emotional roller coaster ride you take along with Solomon Northup is almost perfect. The character development and other key aspects of the film, make it a must watch. The movie almost plays like a Schindler's list meets passion of the Christ. The one negative thing I can say about the film is the unnecessary brutality at some parts and also how it drawn out. Sooner or later I felt like I've been here and done this for two hours already. Though the movie closes off with a fantastic conclusion to a movie that will leave you hating yourself...especially if your white. Though my ancestress weren't in America during slavery and basically Irish people were slaves years before blacks; you still get that terrible sense you did something wrong. You can take this badly or good. I choose neither. It paints a picture of what we (as whites) did to blacks, which is basically the worst thing ever committed by Americans, and gives it to us. It's a very well down movie and does seem to be one of the best movies of 2013. Overall it has some big flaws but rights itself in the end with a extremely emotional finale. 9.1… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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9

kglnycOct 25, 2013

More an "important" film than a "great" film (but a VERY important almost great film). The acting is very good (and sometimes even great Lupita Nyong'o should win an Oscar for best supporting actress), and the direction is competent. WhatMore an "important" film than a "great" film (but a VERY important almost great film). The acting is very good (and sometimes even great Lupita Nyong'o should win an Oscar for best supporting actress), and the direction is competent. What carries the film is the actual narrative that Solomon Northrup provided over a century and half ago. An amazing true story that makes me sit in a theater as an American and consider my country both how far we've come but how much we obscure. Slavery, though, is ultimately a human narrative and not a national narrative, and I deeply respect what all the people in this film intend to make mass audiences reflect on.… Expand

4 of 8 users found this helpful44

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9

FedelcaMar 16, 2014

Lo más curioso de este proyecto es que, varios años antes de 12 Years a Slave, se le había premiado al director Steve McQueen como "Futuro Talento Cinematográfico". Nunca se equivocan. 12 Years a Slave es fiel a los relatos de Salomon NorthupLo más curioso de este proyecto es que, varios años antes de 12 Years a Slave, se le había premiado al director Steve McQueen como "Futuro Talento Cinematográfico". Nunca se equivocan. 12 Years a Slave es fiel a los relatos de Salomon Northup y con un reparto exquisito demuestra que hasta el día de hoy se marca y se hace recuerdo de una parte de la historia americana (y del resto del mundo en parte) que nos provoca mirar hacia atrás y sentirnos avergonzados de lo que alguna vez fuimos, pues la película hace mucho hincapié en la falta de humanidad de ese entonces cuando las personas de África eran esclavizadas y maltratadas hasta un punto que resulta imposible. Digna ganadora del Premio Óscar y digna de pagar una entrada para ir a verla.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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9

dodds44Nov 23, 2013

A masterful film filled with disgusting yet beautiful imagery. An all star cast with great performances by everyone. This film is not for the faint of heart.

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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9

AssassinationMar 25, 2014

The Autobiography of Solomon northup !!

** 12 Years Of Slave ** * This movie which dwells you in the depth of emotions which is caused by suffering and hardship rather than a warm happiness & enjoyment ! this film actually puts you inThe Autobiography of Solomon northup !!

** 12 Years Of Slave **

* This movie which dwells you in the depth of emotions which is caused by suffering and hardship rather than a warm happiness & enjoyment ! this film actually puts you in the place in which you being entertained by sadness and hardship in which you would never have expected or cannot deny being entertained !.This movie can literally capture your emotions it makes you feel for those characters in this movie like any other its has a specialty within itself that is unique from others ! .This is one of the greatest movie hands down it has beauty in its own which is both wonderful and outstanding !! .

* This movie is an autobiography of Solomon northup who is being kidnapped and sold for slavery that eventually turns his life into misery & hardship ! This film was true to its source materials that gave this movie the huge clarity actually it also gave the feel to his suffering and also suffering for others who he associated with ! This movie has both beauty and truth .

* The Actors Performance was outstanding they stood as the actual generators who generates our emotion when they perform during screen play ! Each and every actors performance stood as pillars for this entire movie ! Chiwetel Ejiofor as Solomon Northup did and excellent performance so did other actors like Lupita Nyong'o as Patsey ,Michael Fassbender as Edwin Epps ,Benedict Cumberbatch as William Ford and Brad Pitt as Samuel Bass they gave their respective characters heart and soul for this movie ! .

* The Characters in this movie is heavily relied upon the performance of the actors as it being performed excellent and wonderful it gives the characters its beauty and brilliance !.

* This movie is basically less in humor you cannot find any moment that so enjoyable because the story doesn't fit in with humor as it eventually displays emotion which are related with misery and hardship !.

* This movie is entirely dramatic as its display an amount of clarity and sense of wonder with great screenplay and excellent acting performance that gives this movie its advantage and credit ! .

* The director of this movie Steve McQueen did an outstanding dramatic movie with great direction & screenplay that make this movie as one of the best autobiographic movies of all the time ! .

* Overall the movie is outstanding with all the performance it has successfully captured our emotions that gave this movie a sense of wonder , excitement and also sense of satisfaction which makes this entire movie wonderful .

12 Years of Slave : *********

(9/10)… Expand

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9

hushpupNov 22, 2013

Great movie. My only complaint is that they couldn't use all the stories from the book. Some people criticizing the movie seem to have a problem with history. This wasn't made for Hollywood. it is based on true life. Sorry if that makes youGreat movie. My only complaint is that they couldn't use all the stories from the book. Some people criticizing the movie seem to have a problem with history. This wasn't made for Hollywood. it is based on true life. Sorry if that makes you uncomfortable. Brad Pitt's character speaks basically straight from the book text.… Expand

3 of 6 users found this helpful33

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9

willkulkaNov 23, 2013

Steve McQueen truly composes his magnum opus; a film of gut-wrenching realism that emphasizes the horrors of slavery. Truly, supreme acting, a beautiful score, and culturally accurate detail that could have fooled you that McQueen had beenSteve McQueen truly composes his magnum opus; a film of gut-wrenching realism that emphasizes the horrors of slavery. Truly, supreme acting, a beautiful score, and culturally accurate detail that could have fooled you that McQueen had been there himself.… Expand

5 of 9 users found this helpful54

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9

barneyfife2121Nov 23, 2013

A masterpiece.

This movie is an affirmation of the power that can come from oppression, as well as to possess the power of resolve and determination. It represents a major part of the American experience.

3 of 5 users found this helpful32

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9

MattG_123Dec 31, 2013

By far the most emotionally powerful film of the year. Also with great performances from everyone, especially Michael Fassbender who played a washed up drunk who abused himself along with his innocent slaves. Yes, it is an awkward and touchyBy far the most emotionally powerful film of the year. Also with great performances from everyone, especially Michael Fassbender who played a washed up drunk who abused himself along with his innocent slaves. Yes, it is an awkward and touchy subject at times, not just this one, but many others in the past and probably much more to come. However don't go thinking it's "Django Unchained", it is a factual story about a free man who was tricked into slavery through the passing of 12 years. I love movies over time, and that's what the film does, and it's actually kind of beautiful, even if Solomon's path was dark and gruesome. Throughout the film he'll meet terrible people and great people, it sort of reminded me of Forrest Gump because of its passing of time. The spirit, adventure and heart that Solomon has is what keeps him interesting and alive, and he almost feels nurturing. He feels the pain for others and cares about them, he would put himself in risk if it meant helping others. Yes, 12 Years a Slave is one of the best films you'll see this year.

12 Years a Slave gets 9.3/10… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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9

twerk-kingFeb 21, 2014

Exceptional acting and great direction. While many are not familiar with Solomon Northup's epic life story, including myself, the film delivers a great execution as if you were the one experiencing all these events that happened in Solomon'sExceptional acting and great direction. While many are not familiar with Solomon Northup's epic life story, including myself, the film delivers a great execution as if you were the one experiencing all these events that happened in Solomon's life. Steve McQueen really knows how to capture the essence of the theme. Moreover, the acting was EXCEPTIONAL. Big applause for Chiwetel Ejiofor, Michael Fassbender, Sarah Paulson, and newcomer Lupita Nyong'o. I'm surprised that Sarah Paulson didn't get the praised that she should've gotten. However, the movie itself is already a box office success, it doesn't need a lot of awards to attract audiences.… Expand

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9

bfoore90Oct 25, 2019

An incredible look at the story of a free black man's fight to return to his family after being abducted and sold into slavery.

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9

JpJuarioMar 24, 2014

''Fearless!'' ''Unforgettable.'' ''Electrifying.'' ''One Of The Best Films Ever Made!'' This is the movie you should watch in focus. One of the most Important film you're ever going to see.

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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9

RobbieGMar 6, 2014

A shockingly heartbreaking recreation of a true event in the bleak history of nineteenth century American society, McQueen brings this period piece to life, or deprivation thereof, with talented cast performances on both sides of the divide.A shockingly heartbreaking recreation of a true event in the bleak history of nineteenth century American society, McQueen brings this period piece to life, or deprivation thereof, with talented cast performances on both sides of the divide. Soloman Northup, a free African American, is lured by two circus men who promise him work as a musician. However, his whole world is turned upside down when he wakes up in shackles and on the wrong end of the black slave trade. Not a movie for the light-hearted, it features various scenes of black people being tortured, whipped, raped, and forced to stand still with no clothes on while they are inspected and sold off for a price to their new white masters (the proceeds of which they will never see a dime of). The depressing storyline aside, the film emanates with flowing nineteenth century frocks and settings, but it is Chiwetel Ejiofor as a brilliant solo piece that completes the film. We follow him throughout his 12 years as a slave, and his tight-lipped performance brews an emotional storm of helplessness but also hope in those who watch it. Not being able to speak out much, especially in the company of his various overseers, leaves a lot of work to his body language, and he makes it work. I didn't find Lupita Nyong'o as impressive as the Academy did, and Brad Pitt was inserted in seemingly because he just looks good and wanted to be in his own production. I guess we all would if we had the chance. It's an honest film, worth seeing even if just to experience what it means to be free one day and bound and helpless the next.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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9

RamonGuerreroMay 1, 2014

An amazing journey to a era of slavery, brutality, and a sad true story of a surviver, by the hand of stunning performances, and one of the most recognised director, Steve McQueen is at his very best, but still a bit slow at some sequences.

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9

diogomendesDec 9, 2014

A beautiful look at American slavery, "12 Years a Slave" is undoubtedly the best movie of 2013 (along with Captain Philips and Gravity) thanks to its phenomenal cast and expertly written story.

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9

elsylorenaJul 19, 2014

Una grandiosa película, realizada para hacerte llorar, con maravillosas interpretaciones por parte de sus protagonistas y que muestra una parte importante de la historia norteamericana.

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9

Viper8787Apr 21, 2014

A great, great film about a free man who is abducted and sold into slavery. It is a very sad tale and shows how racist we used to be and how bad slavery really was. A great cast with many great acting performances. Michael FassbendersA great, great film about a free man who is abducted and sold into slavery. It is a very sad tale and shows how racist we used to be and how bad slavery really was. A great cast with many great acting performances. Michael Fassbenders character was crazy and he did a fantastic job with his role. A great movie deserving of the best picture Oscar this year.… Expand

3 of 4 users found this helpful31

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9

JohnMasterLJan 4, 2015

Steve McQueen a creado una obra de arte, a pesar de la intensa violencia, racismo, y varias brutalidades gráficas que acontecen en esta película, 12 Años de Esclavo es un logro cinematográfico, su crudo realismo te dejara sin aliento.Steve McQueen a creado una obra de arte, a pesar de la intensa violencia, racismo, y varias brutalidades gráficas que acontecen en esta película, 12 Años de Esclavo es un logro cinematográfico, su crudo realismo te dejara sin aliento.
AUNQUE..... No me parece que se merecía el Oscar a mejor película, eso era para Gravedad de Alfonso Cuaron… Expand

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9

horizonbtsFeb 21, 2015

Impressive film and a true story, which for me always adds to the experience! The acting is very good and the story intensive!! The film is actually hard to watch at times as some of the scenes are quite graphic. Still very true to theImpressive film and a true story, which for me always adds to the experience! The acting is very good and the story intensive!! The film is actually hard to watch at times as some of the scenes are quite graphic. Still very true to the atrocities that took place in slavery before the civil war! This has you coming away with a distaste and a displeasure that we as humans could stoop so low in actions. Again I repeat at times for me this was hard to watch, but you wanted to finish to see how Solomon the main character persevered! I was hesitant to take on the task of watching this movie, but in the end glad I decided to purchase it in DVD. If you haven't seen this movie I would suggest in doing so, but be warned again the film can be very graphic at times.… Expand

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9

homer4presidentMar 29, 2015

"12 Years a Slave" is arresting, a film that needs to be watched and is easily the best movie that touches on the topic of slavery. Even more so, it is a film that is both informative, extraordinarily emotional, and an incredible eye-opener"12 Years a Slave" is arresting, a film that needs to be watched and is easily the best movie that touches on the topic of slavery. Even more so, it is a film that is both informative, extraordinarily emotional, and an incredible eye-opener to slavery's mental destruction to man.… Expand

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9

johnniMar 24, 2015

به تصویر کشیدن تبعیض نژادی با بهره گیری از موسیقی متن خوب و بازی های احساسی که ممکنه اشک شما رو هم در بیاره..

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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9

EpicLadySpongeFeb 4, 2016

Enjoyable and lovable from both critics and users! 12 Years a Slave could win like a whole load of awards due to the fact of how excellent and how interesting it is.

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9

pdw123Sep 19, 2016

One of the finest films of the year along with "The Butler", or Americans need to consider them companion pieces and view both for sure! Even though this is NOT a film to watch for entertainment but for an education about what slavery reallyOne of the finest films of the year along with "The Butler", or Americans need to consider them companion pieces and view both for sure! Even though this is NOT a film to watch for entertainment but for an education about what slavery really was, the "Great Debaters" and the Quentin Tarantino film from last year ARE ones which are going in the proper direction, instead of the direction you usually think of Hollywood as going. The Henry Louis Gates series on PBS now is also quite good, and I think he must've been an adviser on this film. That said, Michael Fassbender and Steve McQueen should be considered to be beyond their time, or it's high time we had a film like this!… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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9

M1N5KMar 17, 2019

This film was beautiful. The colour grading was amazing, the writers did a really good job, and the actors were amazing.

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9

leon_hardosMar 16, 2018

This film clearly showed those bloody times. Great story and great acting. 9/10

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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9

Wavy_YeezyMay 5, 2019

Maybe it's because I'm a teenager but I think this movie drags along too much. It didn't have to be as long as it was but despite that this is still an incredible film.

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9

loremMar 30, 2020

A true masterpiece that reveals, once again, the cruelty and falsity of human nature.

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9

DogeGamer2015Aug 14, 2020

Es dura de ver, pero consigue cautivar y hasta conmover, está bien dirigida y tiene unos excelentes actores.

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9

gamingmachineryJul 14, 2020

No review present. No review present. No review present. No review present.

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9

MovieloverNikMay 20, 2021

12 Years a Slave sure isn't an easy watch but it's totally worth it. Chiwetel Ejiofor and Michael Fassbender are fantastic as well as Lupita Nyong'o. Steve McQueen's Direction and the Visuals are really great too.

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9

JJ2FAS4UDec 31, 2021

----------------------------------9.0/10-----------------------------------

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9

a_leitaoApr 19, 2022

long film but worthy of its lenght. A drama that still has a lot of heart as it forces out all the humanity and compassion in the audience

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8

BKMNov 20, 2013

While I don't think that it's quite the masterpiece that it's being hailed as, Steve McQueen's take on one of the darkest chapters in American history is fascinating never the less. The depiction of the horrific lives led by slaves hasWhile I don't think that it's quite the masterpiece that it's being hailed as, Steve McQueen's take on one of the darkest chapters in American history is fascinating never the less. The depiction of the horrific lives led by slaves has rarely,if ever, been captured with so much honesty and complexity. The performances are exceptional, particularly Fassbender as the sadistic plantation owner who embodies all of the malice and hatred that allowed such an unspeakable era to forever scar our collective consciousness.… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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8

JacobMar 8, 2014

The film is lengthy and it did lose me about halfway/three-fourths of the way win but when it had me it had me by the balls. At its best this film is amazing providing one of the most engaging, emotional, and powerful films to come out thisThe film is lengthy and it did lose me about halfway/three-fourths of the way win but when it had me it had me by the balls. At its best this film is amazing providing one of the most engaging, emotional, and powerful films to come out this year. This movie is a must watch for any film buff. Filmmaking can be an art and with some excellent cinematography you can create some powerful moments and this film does that.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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8

TokyochuchuOct 5, 2014

12 Years a Slave is an interesting film that educates us upon just how dark a past we humans have. The movie is extremely well acted and sometimes uncomfortably emotive. Two specific annoyances , though; the director's unnecessary use of12 Years a Slave is an interesting film that educates us upon just how dark a past we humans have. The movie is extremely well acted and sometimes uncomfortably emotive. Two specific annoyances , though; the director's unnecessary use of over-long static camera shots (We get the point! We don't need to be bashed over the head!) and very famous actors cropping up and breaking immersion (Oooooh... It's Brad Pitt). These points aside, 12 Years a Slave is great.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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8

DheerajApr 12, 2014

A well taken movie. Precise, and to-the-point, although it did feel a little draggy in between. Exceptional performance by Michael Fassbender. Good performances from Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Benedict Cumberbatch add to the essence of the movie.A well taken movie. Precise, and to-the-point, although it did feel a little draggy in between. Exceptional performance by Michael Fassbender. Good performances from Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Benedict Cumberbatch add to the essence of the movie. The movie did feel like it was already conveying a well known concept, and hence felt slightly boring. Impressive locations and cinematography gave the movie what it needed.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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8

drlowdonDec 25, 2016

12 Years a Slave is an adaptation of the 1853 slave narrative memoir Twelve Years a Slave by Solomon Northup, a New York State-born free African-American man who was kidnapped in Washington, D.C., in 1841 and sold into slavery. This really is12 Years a Slave is an adaptation of the 1853 slave narrative memoir Twelve Years a Slave by Solomon Northup, a New York State-born free African-American man who was kidnapped in Washington, D.C., in 1841 and sold into slavery. This really is a powerful movie, one that is made all the more affecting by being a very accurate portrayal of a true story. The cast are excellent and it never shy's away from showing the true horrors of slavery without, without resorting to any cheap shock tactics.

A must see movie.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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8

Mike_MNov 25, 2013

I found this movie to be great but not perfect. I read every yellow or red user review, and found nearly every claim or sentiment in them to be nonsense. I will comment on them as a whole here.

solutions10: The movie is not unnecessary.I found this movie to be great but not perfect. I read every yellow or red user review, and found nearly every claim or sentiment in them to be nonsense. I will comment on them as a whole here.

solutions10:
The movie is not unnecessary. The movie doesn't need to be plotted in the way that an action-thriller screenwriting 101 movie is. Not every movie needs to be "entertaining" in the way that some people demand. The various slave owners were different people with different personalities. A movie is not obliged to fit a genre.
ErikTheRed:
I find it absolutely stupefying that you would object to the movie as full of stereotypes, excessive brutality and sadism, and not made for a noble purpose; AND THEN suggest a Tarantino movie instead.
EvanB:
How does it 'go nowhere'? What message did you want it to have? What would happen if someone tried to make a movie that didn't have a message you could summarize in a short sentence? Did you notice zero changes in Solomon's character?
GreatMartin:
I agree that the out-of-order sequence or repetition of moments may have lost more than it gained, but it did serve to underline the thoughts and emotions of Solomon. I can't agree that some of the long takes and transitions "should have moved quicker". I thought they were quite right for this movie.
twenty-twenty:
You watched a movie about a free man sold into slavery for twelve years and you have a problem with the suffering in it? I don't see how the movie would have been better if they also included some of the joking around or dancing or Sunday naps or that the slaves took, to round out the picture. Not every single white character in this movie is evil; I think you may have forgotten at least 4 characters.
2thepoint:
As *I* stood back and looked at this film objectively, I found it to be excellent. Part of that excellence was how it worked on my emotions, without manipulating them. I don't understand what was unintelligible.
killingspree:
I'm white and a centrist, and the movie did not make me feel guilty. I would guess that you watched this movie while imagining someone you hate watching this movie. I watched this movie imagining the life of a free man kidnapped and sold into slavery. It made me think and feel new things. Also, I'm a little bit worried about your screen-name.
ramsaypalmer:
For everything you said, it seems that you should have recommended a few of these movies that you had in mind. As far as the realism and acting, the whole movie struck me as having a 'heightened realism' tone, not pure realism, and not pure stylization. I think this 'heightened realism' is reflected through the movie, as in the long transitions in the middle of the movie where the sound from the previous scene affects our understanding of the new scene [a slave woman sobbing at night the next morning a slave owner reads scripture to all the slaves].… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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8

OfficialMar 8, 2014

Personally, I thought the ending was pretty much predictable, but other than, the movie really stands out. The acting is fantastic, the movie is powerful and tragic, and even though the film is not an absolute masterpiece, it is definitely aPersonally, I thought the ending was pretty much predictable, but other than, the movie really stands out. The acting is fantastic, the movie is powerful and tragic, and even though the film is not an absolute masterpiece, it is definitely a must-see.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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8

SpangleNov 20, 2013

Absolutely great film. Chiwetel Ejiofor's performance as Solomon Northup is absolutely Oscar-worthy, as is Steve McQueen's direction. The film is emotional, dark, and depressing, everything that you would expect in a film on this topic. WithAbsolutely great film. Chiwetel Ejiofor's performance as Solomon Northup is absolutely Oscar-worthy, as is Steve McQueen's direction. The film is emotional, dark, and depressing, everything that you would expect in a film on this topic. With 12 Years a Slave, we are presented a tragically true story and given every gory detail, making this film extremelty uncomfortable to watch, but yet, it's massively important.… Expand

4 of 7 users found this helpful43

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8

gerbils99Feb 19, 2014

Sure it's masterfully made in every aspect, but it doesn't explore much more than what Django Unchained did the year before. WWWWWWOOOOORRRRDDDDD MINIMUM

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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8

BestponyMar 19, 2014

It's a painful, two-hour punch in the gut. You won't enjoy it but you have to see it. As a work of art it deserves a full 10; I'm giving it an 8 because, as a film, it could use a tighter story and a more compelling lead character.

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8

Compi24Oct 27, 2013

Harrowing, grotesque, earnest, and featuring perfect performances from Ejiofor, Fassbender, and Nyong'o, Steve McQueen's "12 Years A Slave" is an unwaveringly powerful look at the darkest depth of humanity.

3 of 5 users found this helpful32

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8

foxgroveOct 21, 2013

This year's supposed Oscar front runner is a well crafted but brutalising drama about slavery that certainly makes you comprehend the horror of it all. Not quite the masterpiece that I was hoping for but good never the less. Steve McQueen'sThis year's supposed Oscar front runner is a well crafted but brutalising drama about slavery that certainly makes you comprehend the horror of it all. Not quite the masterpiece that I was hoping for but good never the less. Steve McQueen's direction has the scope of an epic but the feel is really quite intimate. The writing is so wonderful that at times it feels almost poetic and the actors articulate every word to perfection. Period detail is also tops and the cinematography is just ravishing in its beauty, possibly the best I have seen this year so far. The Music also, which has a similarity to McQueen's 'Shame', adds gravitas.

Amongst a veritable feast of performances only Brad Pitt's indifferent turn fails to hit the mark. I was particularly impressed with Paul Dano (always a good baddie) as Benedict Cumberbatch's power obsessed over seer; Michael Fassbender as the cruel plantation owner; Sarah Paulson as his cold and jealous wife and Lupita Nyong'o as the tragic Patsey. In the lead role as Solomon, kidnapped from his home and sold into slavery for 12 years, Chiwetel Ejiofor conveys with frustration and anger the injustice of the situation in which he finds himself. It is a subtle and impressive performance which culminates in a well earned emotional pay of when he and his family are finally re-united. In all honesty it is only a slight over length and minuscule repetition that prevents this important story from achieving true movie greatness.… Expand

8 of 17 users found this helpful89

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8

bm2759Jan 19, 2014

Chiwetel Ejiofor is an actor I've been a fan of for some time now. I first took notice of him in Serenity, then was quite pleased with his performances in Children of Men, Redbelt, and Salt. 12 Years a Slave shows us just how talent his is.Chiwetel Ejiofor is an actor I've been a fan of for some time now. I first took notice of him in Serenity, then was quite pleased with his performances in Children of Men, Redbelt, and Salt. 12 Years a Slave shows us just how talent his is. Through him we see joy, contentment, fear, horror, hate, anger, reluctance, hopelessness, and gratitude. He will be remembered as one of the greats.

Like many have said this is a very brutally honest depiction of life as a slave. It's truly horrible and Solomon's journey shows us a range of different he encounters. Amongst those who 'own' him we see truly evil people, opportunists, kind-hearted slavers and cruel slavers. Amongst his fellow slaves we see people who are helpful, selfish, indifferent, and traumatized. Through him we experience the worst of human nature and indifference to the suffering of others.

Solomon's ordeal shows us that even as a slave not everyone (but almost) enjoyed treating African slaves as property to do with as they wished, and were barely human. This story serves as a reminder of how far Western civilization has come today, when compared to the rapid industrialist expansion which caused slavery of Africans to begin. Through this story we're able to see that social justice is of utmost importance.… Expand

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8

PStakhivNov 3, 2013

12 Years A Slave showed us one of the ugly page of american history, and does so realistically with high degree of drama. Acting as well as writing in this movie is oscar worthy! But it's not perfect, some scenes are better be cut off, some12 Years A Slave showed us one of the ugly page of american history, and does so realistically with high degree of drama. Acting as well as writing in this movie is oscar worthy! But it's not perfect, some scenes are better be cut off, some characters are pointless! Overall it's great but depressing picture… Expand

7 of 11 users found this helpful74

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8

moviemitch96Feb 2, 2014

It is by no means perfect like so many people and critics have been claiming it to be, but it's still a great film nonetheless! While the story looks and feels like a standard and typical slavery film, it's the acting that really propels thisIt is by no means perfect like so many people and critics have been claiming it to be, but it's still a great film nonetheless! While the story looks and feels like a standard and typical slavery film, it's the acting that really propels this film. The entire all-star cast gives it their all with some great and memorable performances. Chiwetel Ejiofor gives a career-defining performance in what is a very emotional and powerful portrayal of Solomon Northrup. Michael Fassbender also gives one of his best performances to date as a cruel plantation owner. Newcomer Lupita Nyong'o gives a well done, yet highly overrated performance as a fellow slave. The reason I'm calling it overrated is because she's won and is up for so many awards for a performance that wasn't even that impressive (Jennifer Lawrence did much better in "American Hustle" and certainty deserves the Oscar over Lupita.) Other actors who did really good, but didn't get much screentime include Benedict Cumberbatch, Paul Dano, Paul Giamatti, and Brad Pitt. Overall, while Solomon's story feels a little "been there, done that" in terms of slavery, the acting helps push it along nicely. While it's no doubt that it's a great film, I wouldn't consider it best picture material. I'd be OK with it winning however. It's a great historical and emotional film that's definitely worth seeing!… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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8

ambenderDec 28, 2013

Although certainly impressive on all fronts, the movie just quite isn't the masterpiece that many are proclaiming it to be. Comparisons to Django Unchained are inevitable, but McQueen's film represents a more serious (and harrowing) approachAlthough certainly impressive on all fronts, the movie just quite isn't the masterpiece that many are proclaiming it to be. Comparisons to Django Unchained are inevitable, but McQueen's film represents a more serious (and harrowing) approach to difficult material.… Expand

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8

deanableJan 6, 2014

A good film for sure. But grim and sadistic. It will win many awards I'm sure but I don't think Best Picture will be one of them mainly because the direction of the film is awkward at times and often intrusive

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8

alpoFeb 4, 2014

An excellent and disturbing film. McQueen does a great job presenting all characters as humans, rather than stereotypes, although Brad Pitt's character seemed a bit too saintly. The acting is generally top notch, particularly MichaelAn excellent and disturbing film. McQueen does a great job presenting all characters as humans, rather than stereotypes, although Brad Pitt's character seemed a bit too saintly. The acting is generally top notch, particularly Michael Fassbender, Lupita Nyong'o, and especially Chiwetel Ejiofor. Beautifully shot as well.… Expand

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8

antonimaJan 24, 2014

In case you don't know what you're walking into: this movie is really SAD . There is no sugar coating here, it is a simple portrayal of the injustice and tragedy that happened in the American south before the civil war. At the end, there isIn case you don't know what you're walking into: this movie is really SAD . There is no sugar coating here, it is a simple portrayal of the injustice and tragedy that happened in the American south before the civil war. At the end, there is no great satisfaction, justice isn't really meted out. A man's life is broken, a family is shaken to its foundation, and emancipation isn't going to bring to justice the wicked people who built and profited from that system. This is not a movie you will enjoy watching, but it is very powerful and it illustrates a real issue very, very vividly.… Expand

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8

Longo12Feb 24, 2014

This movie demonstrates the horrors of that time period so well it is sometimes hard to watch. The acting is fantastic and I think all the actors deserve recognition for their performances. My one big complaint though, is I didn't feel likeThis movie demonstrates the horrors of that time period so well it is sometimes hard to watch. The acting is fantastic and I think all the actors deserve recognition for their performances. My one big complaint though, is I didn't feel like we got to know the character of Solomon at all. There was not much insight to who he was as a person other then he loves his family. I felt a lot of the supporting roles, in particular Michael Fassbenders, were handled pretty well but it often felt as if we were being shown all these horrific things just because he was there and not so much how it had effected him (Hopefully that comes across how I meant it). But overall definetly worth a see.… Expand

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8

Mordovan89Mar 1, 2014

It was quite interesting, especially in the script movie, but the torture scenes are very strong, even you feel the pain of the slaves, that if it was painful, but otherwise had no problem, it is a great work and end was the best, if not winIt was quite interesting, especially in the script movie, but the torture scenes are very strong, even you feel the pain of the slaves, that if it was painful, but otherwise had no problem, it is a great work and end was the best, if not win the Oscar, but stay in my favorites.… Expand

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8

CherryxldNov 23, 2014

12 Years Slave es una película de drama convincente y con un guión atractivo, y que aunque la película le falto un poco de chispa, no dejo de ser un buen drama.

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8

43in2014Aug 1, 2015

Prior to watching this: I have not read the book.

Premise: Set before the Civil War, a black, free man was tricked and sold into slavery, from where he tries to escape to get back to his family Pros: 1) it has a powerful story. 2)Prior to watching this: I have not read the book.

Premise: Set before the Civil War, a black, free man was tricked and sold into slavery, from where he tries to escape to get back to his family

Pros:
1) it has a powerful story.
2) Great acting all around.

Cons:
1) It is a drama and drama may not be to everyone's taste.

Score: 4/5. Worth watching it in the cinema.

Who would be satisfied with this? The elder you are, the more you would like this.… Expand

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8

ydnar4Nov 22, 2014

12 Years a Slave couldn't be more real. It really captures what the world was like at that time. Solomon Northup was portray beautifully and I'm glad that this film managed to capture the Oscar for Best Picture, its a very worthy film. The12 Years a Slave couldn't be more real. It really captures what the world was like at that time. Solomon Northup was portray beautifully and I'm glad that this film managed to capture the Oscar for Best Picture, its a very worthy film. The ending has one of the most intense scenes that I've seen in any movie, I won't spoil it, because its amazing. It must have took a lot of studying in order to create this film. I may have to go out and read Northup's book now.… Expand

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8

davyfioreFeb 27, 2015

So I finally got around to seeing 12 Years a Slave, and now that I've wiped the tears from my face, I can tell you I was a little disappointed!

Don't get me wrong. I'm glad I watched it. I liked certain things about the directing (like theSo I finally got around to seeing 12 Years a Slave, and now that I've wiped the tears from my face, I can tell you I was a little disappointed!

Don't get me wrong. I'm glad I watched it. I liked certain things about the directing (like the fact that McQueen didn't plaster the movie with music) but the whole thing, the whole production, struck me as somewhat empty. There weren't those little details that bring a story, and especially a time period, to life. Life in the slave quarters, in particular, was lifeless. You can argue that that's because all the slaves were reduced to zombies, but I think it might be more a lack of imagination on the writer's part. In general I felt that where the source material didn't give any information, the movie-makers failed to fill in the gaps without resorting to cliche. I definitely want to read the autobiography now, though.

In a weird way it was like a melding of Mel Gibson's Passion of the Christ and Apocalypto (or however you spell it). 12 Years had the lingering sadomasochism of the Passion (Polansky proved you don't need to dwell on torture to make an audience feel it), at the same time it was a rousing survival story like Apocalypto. How can you not root for Platt! Every time he got his hands on some sneering racist villain I cheered! But I was disappointed in the end, because say what you will about Mel Gibson, he knows how to conjure up the weirdness of a different world.

Also, you gotta love how Brad Pitt, who produced the movie, gave himself the best white role.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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8

WizGullofaJan 9, 2017

"12 Years A Slave" is a good film that confronts the horrors of slavery in a manner which no film will ever likely match. The performances are intense and shockingly real. In my opinion the films best performance is by Michael Fassbender. His"12 Years A Slave" is a good film that confronts the horrors of slavery in a manner which no film will ever likely match. The performances are intense and shockingly real. In my opinion the films best performance is by Michael Fassbender. His awful, rapist slave owner is such a horrible character it makes my blood boil just to see him on the screen. Efijior and Nyong'o also have fairly good performances but they don't compare to Fassbender. I think my only qualm with the film is that it is not exceptional as its reception made it out to be. However this is not any fault of the film. In conclusion, "12 Years a Slave" is a good, important film, not a great one.… Expand

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8

FilipeNetoMay 20, 2018

This movie is one of the most remarkable I have seen in recent times. Slavery is a theme that has been approached in cinema, giving rise to such grandiose films as, for example, "Amistad", a film with which we can make comparisons, since bothThis movie is one of the most remarkable I have seen in recent times. Slavery is a theme that has been approached in cinema, giving rise to such grandiose films as, for example, "Amistad", a film with which we can make comparisons, since both are close: they approach the same theme from a similar perspective, situate Its history roughly the same time and both start from true stories. However, this film has the added beauty of showing us the cruelty to which a slave was subjected by its owners. And I say the word beauty because we sometimes need to see in order to understand. From this point of view, this film, based on the memoirs of Solomon himself, is an interesting document that allows us to understand the history, the past, the cruelty of those acts. Needless to say, I loved the story and I think the script is great. I do not know to what extent he is faithful to the book, but it seems quite true to reality, to what really happened then. The sets and costumes were also well made and reliable. Chiwetel Ejiofor gave life to the main character and filled the screen with feelings, nostalgia, anguish and pungent pain, in an excellent interpretation. Dickie Gravois is the name, I think, of the actor who plays the foreman of the last plantation where Solomon worked, and I must congratulate this actor as he has made his character truly worthy of our hatred.

This is a precious film that hardly makes anyone indifferent. It is not for everyone. Children should not watch. It has some nudity and especially violence, which is needed in such a film. It's worth watching.… Expand

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8

AlanoSilvaPBFeb 25, 2023

Rapaz que filme triste!!!
Até que ponto o homem mal pode chegar?
São filmes assim que me fazem perguntar a mim mesmo se ainda existe esperança para a própria humanidade?

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8

vusal_iskandarJun 22, 2019

Early minutes into the movie seem really boring, and as if talk to us the end of story, everything I already knew about slavery. But after moments and moments, it takes point and direction. Especially great story, superbly acted andEarly minutes into the movie seem really boring, and as if talk to us the end of story, everything I already knew about slavery. But after moments and moments, it takes point and direction. Especially great story, superbly acted and beautifully shot can be noted.… Expand

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8

ThejodjeremieOct 23, 2020

The movie is very violent but it's supposed to because of the story its telling. The movie is great and I recommend it.

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8

royalguy07Jan 3, 2023

Crazily star studded and exceptionally performed. The plot and execution is still fairly typical of this kind of story. It is a very miserable tale. Brad Pitt comes in very hot in just 2 scenes and at least a dozen recognizable whiteCrazily star studded and exceptionally performed. The plot and execution is still fairly typical of this kind of story. It is a very miserable tale. Brad Pitt comes in very hot in just 2 scenes and at least a dozen recognizable white character actors show up to play vile racists.… Expand

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8

DarkwingSchmuckJul 27, 2023

12 Years a Slave is a tragic look at the true story of one man's life being stolen from him for over a decade. Chiwetel Ejiofor gives a marvelous performance, and Lupita Nyang'o is a revelation in her Oscar-winning role, though the film's way12 Years a Slave is a tragic look at the true story of one man's life being stolen from him for over a decade. Chiwetel Ejiofor gives a marvelous performance, and Lupita Nyang'o is a revelation in her Oscar-winning role, though the film's way of conveying time is its greatest flaw. While the movie takes place over the span of 12 years, it's executed in a way where it could just as easily be over a year or two if the title hadn't stated otherwise.… Expand

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7

NedRyerson1Feb 13, 2014

12 Years a Slave is probably the film that portrayed more accurately the subjet of slavery. Compare it with Django Unchained is nonsense, because the goal of Tarantino was show and evaluate vengeance in the hands of a slave. In contrast 1212 Years a Slave is probably the film that portrayed more accurately the subjet of slavery. Compare it with Django Unchained is nonsense, because the goal of Tarantino was show and evaluate vengeance in the hands of a slave. In contrast 12 Years a Slave seeks to exhibit the life of slaves, seeming more a documentary that a fiction movie. That is why the idea is not to feel sorry for the protagonist or to cheer for him, it is simply to learn about this topic and do not forget of what we did in the past. The only problem of this film is lack of message, besides showing what was slavery and that is not escape from it, there is not much below. Although if McQueen wanted to have something below, it would not be possible to make the movie like a documentary. Despite all that McQueen gives us an excellent job, the script is also very good, the cast is amazing, specially Ejiofor, Fassbender and Cumberbatch, but Lupita Nyong'o surprised me a lot.… Expand

4 of 6 users found this helpful42

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7

SkimanMar 22, 2014

Powerful movie. But how could it not be? It's about slavery and thats going to be heavy. Acted very well. Fassbender is like you've never seen him before. Lupita was great but a bit overrated. You know what your getting your self intoPowerful movie. But how could it not be? It's about slavery and thats going to be heavy. Acted very well. Fassbender is like you've never seen him before. Lupita was great but a bit overrated. You know what your getting your self into when you see this movie.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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7

csw12Jan 2, 2014

12 Years a Slave has some great acting, intense moments, and a story that is fantastic. But after all of that, I left the film empty and not completely satisfied. McQueen made a pretty good film, but not a masterpiece.

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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7

catcarloFeb 25, 2014

Nel 1841, Solomon Northup viene rapito a New York, dove vive libero assieme alla famiglia e si guadagna da vivere suonando il violino, e viene deportato come schiavo negli Stati del sud, in crisi di manodopera per le difficoltà sulle rotteNel 1841, Solomon Northup viene rapito a New York, dove vive libero assieme alla famiglia e si guadagna da vivere suonando il violino, e viene deportato come schiavo negli Stati del sud, in crisi di manodopera per le difficoltà sulle rotte negriere dall'Africa. Per raccontarne il lungo incubo prima di ritrovare la libertà, l'inglese Steve McQueen cambia alcune coordinate del suo fare cinema e, quasi a volerlo far intendere subito, utilizza più di una parola nel titolo: si tratta di un film più corale rispetto ai precedenti, che sono dedicati allo scavo psicologico di un solo personaggio, non c’è Fassbender come protagonista assoluto e, soprattutto, la scrittura è affidata a qualcun altro. E’ difatti di John Ridley la sceneggiatura costruita sulle memorie di Northup – che sapeva leggere e scrivere, anche se fu costretto a nasconderlo nei suoi anni di schiavitù – finendo però per essere l'anello debole del lavoro: pur non essendo in nessun punto davvero piatta, la storia non sorprende davvero mai e rende meno efficace l'impatto complessivo. Impatto che, invece, beneficia dell'accuratissimo lavoro della regia sull'immagine: se McQueen conferma la sua bravura nel costruire le inquadrature filmando un profondo sud opprimente dal punto di vista fisico e psicologico (il direttore della fotografia è il fido Sean Bobbitt), il regista inglese dà il meglio di sé nella rappresentazione della fisicità umana, in perfetta continuità con le sue opere precedenti. Si tratta di corpi sofferenti, con in primo piano piaghe sulla pelle che riflettono quelle dell'anima, e di volti che non si vergognano di esprimere i sentimenti – come dice esplicitamente Eliza in una delle tante scene in cui si piange come fontane – raccontando i pensieri che stanno dentro gli sguardi. L'orrore infinito della schiavitù sta nella sgradevolezza dei personaggi interpretati, in piccole ma significative parti, da Paul Dano e Paul Giamatti, oltre che nella gelida cattiveria della signora Epps di Sarah Paulson: se pare vacillare la coscienza di Ford, il primo padrone di Solomon - Benedict Cumberbatch esce di scena troppo presto -, la ferocia del secondo, Epps, la compensa abbondantemente. Nei suoi scomodi panni, l'attore preferito di McQueen, cioè Fassbender, disegna con grande profondità il ritratto di un uomo apparentemente senza sentimenti, violento con più di una punta di sadismo e alcolizzato, rubando se non la scena quantomeno l'attenzione rispetto al resto del cast: ne è testimonianza, fra le altre, la lunga sequenza – girata senza interruzioni con la macchina da presa che segue gli attori – della fustigazione di Patsey. A tener testa a cotanta interpretazione, c’è quella di Chiwetel Ejiofor nel ruolo del protagonista: l'attore inglese, sulle prime dubbioso, coglie al meglio l'occasione della vita rendendo con efficacia prima lo spaesamento di Solomon e poi la sua determinazione a uscire dalla trappola in cui l'hanno ficcato senza piegare (troppo) la testa. Accanto a lui, si fanno ricordare in special modo due figure di donna di una tragicità se possibile crescente, ovvero l’Eliza di Adepero Oduye e la Patsey dell'esordiente Lupita Nyong’o, la cui addolorata performance le ha ben meritato la nomination all'Oscar (corrono per la statuetta anche Fassbender ed Ejiofor, oltre al film e al regista). Piccola, ma decisiva per la liberazione di Northup, è invece la parte di Brad Pitt, che però compare nella lunga lista dei produttori, a testimonianza del fatto che lo sforzo realizzativo è stato notevole per quello che, a tutti gli effetti, è un ‘filmone’: eppure, malgrado la meritoria denuncia (non va dimenticato che la schiavitù esiste ancora), la notevole partecipazione di tutti quanti, le emozioni comunque suscitate anche grazie alla colonna sonora di Hans Zimmer alternata ai canti di lavoro nelle piantagioni, ’12 anni schiavo’ fatica a colpire nel profondo. Per carità, si tratta sempre di un film che sta tra il buono e l'ottimo, ma forse il fatto che sia tutto chiaro ed esplicito rende impossibili gli angoli bui e i momenti indefiniti che congiurano perchè, ad esempio, una pellicola pur non perfetta come ‘Shame’ si piazzi nell'animo dello spettatore e cresca con il passare del tempo.… Expand

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7

TerenceYiboFeb 3, 2014

极其压抑的典型McQueen式电影，虎头蛇尾，进行到后面就乱套，剧情很无聊，一点没有Extraordinary的感觉，几位主演的水准都很平庸，结尾莫名其妙，Hans Zimmer失水准，不过场景很美。

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7

rniecat123Jan 5, 2014

This movie was well acted but I found it a bit slow at times with the main actor looking into space constantly. Lots of people appeared and went with no follow up. I would have liked to see more content and less brutality. It would haveThis movie was well acted but I found it a bit slow at times with the main actor looking into space constantly. Lots of people appeared and went with no follow up. I would have liked to see more content and less brutality. It would have been a much better movie had there been more dialogue. The main star seemed to hog the whole movie.… Expand

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7

Christian0205Mar 30, 2014

It ends up being really predictably, well at least partially. Of course, at the end, that´s what you expect. Really good acting and directing. Excellent design.

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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7

blamiresFeb 21, 2014

Having read before I saw the film that Steve Mcqueen has won a Turner prize I could not help but view the undoubtedly stunning cineography as a separate entity. It made it more difficult to be drawn into the story and empathise with theHaving read before I saw the film that Steve Mcqueen has won a Turner prize I could not help but view the undoubtedly stunning cineography as a separate entity. It made it more difficult to be drawn into the story and empathise with the characters as I felt the director was determined to randomly slot in as many scenery shots as possible at the expense of developing the characters, especially important in a film with little plot. This was borne out by both myself and partner thinking the film was longer than 2hr 15min and neither of us shed a tear - unusual for me!… Expand

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7

monroe076Mar 11, 2014

It's an OK film, but more historical fiction than history. Most characters are black and white (no pun intended) and the only one showing some complexity was the plantation owner played by Benedict Cumberbatch. The screenwriters mostly usedIt's an OK film, but more historical fiction than history. Most characters are black and white (no pun intended) and the only one showing some complexity was the plantation owner played by Benedict Cumberbatch. The screenwriters mostly used violence and cartoon injustice to get you to sympathize with the protagonists and the ending was a bit too sugary and expected for my taste.… Expand

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7

Tomd1941Mar 13, 2014

A good movie although not great. It overplayed the parts of cruelty and beatings to a disgusting point. The flashbacks in time were confusing and awkward. Great acting on the parts of Salomon and Patsy.

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7

Jackstevens98Mar 21, 2014

I had very high expectations for this movie this movie when I saw all of the trailers and it certainly did not live up to those standards in the slightest. I was expecting so much more and it did not deserve best picture or best supportingI had very high expectations for this movie this movie when I saw all of the trailers and it certainly did not live up to those standards in the slightest. I was expecting so much more and it did not deserve best picture or best supporting actress in the oscars. Jennifer Lawrence from American hustle was much better than Lupita Nyongo, and American hustle, Dallas buyers club and captain Phillips were all better than this movie. The constant repeat of the same scene just to waste time was really useless. I thought Fassbenders performance was great but overall..One of Steve McQueens more disappointing films and I'd give it 7/10 at a big push!… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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7

AxefaceJun 22, 2014

12 years a slave is a good film that could have been a great film, it is well worth watching and the conclusion is fantastic, but they somehow felt the need to try just a little bit too hard, when the subject matter is more than powerful12 years a slave is a good film that could have been a great film, it is well worth watching and the conclusion is fantastic, but they somehow felt the need to try just a little bit too hard, when the subject matter is more than powerful enough.

Chiwetel delivers an excellent performance - as always, yet I don't believe that the movie deserves the shining critical acclaim it has received.… Expand

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7

borderlinefilmsFeb 5, 2015

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Objective Subjection

The scarcity of film stock in 1920s Russia spawned innovations in editing. When a Film Professor intercut a poker-faced head-shot with highly-charged discarded footage, his students marvelled at the acting. Soviet montage pioneers also discovered they could lurk considerably longer on a distant shot than on a close up.

Steve McQueen, a black Brit, does a splendid job retelling the cruelest, and perhaps the most troubling period in American history. The contentious subject alone makes it a necessary Oscar contender. A lot of slack available here. Regardless of the style, if the issue is treated with respect it will get respect. Anytime the movie lulls, the audience will inevitably meditate on history's horrible transgressions. Still, people don't go to the cinema to be shamed or reminded of past horrors. So stylizing the movie with foreign objectivity prevents it from getting weepy or sentimental. The complexion and complexness of the story is elevated by plantation owner Edwin Apps' (Michael Fassbender's) justifications. Slavery was legal. Period. Morality is not an issue. Don't blame him, blame the law. Just the way it's still apparently legal to kill Blacks in Florida with its disturbingly primitive Stand Your Ground law. The complexity in 12YAS is supplemented by Fassbender's overall bizarre, eccentric and exceptional behaviour. He even works the fields himself. His transgressions are further justified by deflecting much of the blame on his jealous wife, another marginalized figure. Subjugation is relative and hierarchal. The issue of slavery is even further complicated by abolitionist Bass (Brad Pitt) who, intentionally or not, comes off as a liberal putz.

It's a bold and powerful film all right, due largely to the subject at hand, if not McQueen's aloof presentation. The film gives us a formal study of callous persecution. It's framed with a stoic examination of impartiality intercut with readymade emotional content. McQueen at once immerses and detaches us from the human suffering constituted by American slavery. Notice how long he manages to linger on the hanging scene by shooting it at a distance. Lupita Nyong'o is nominated for an Oscar because her character suffers deeply. Her acting was heightened by basic editing techniques. Leave out the whipping scene or simply remove the shot of the deep, bloodied tracks lashed on her back, and she probably wouldn't be in the running. Similarly, the subject of slavery is so vexing and all-consuming that Chiwetel Ejiofor can play Solomon Northup entirely with detached resignation.… Expand

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7

ryanneevmanDec 23, 2014

Good, but 12 years a slave is just another slave movie that seems extremely real, and well made, which is a good thing, but it is done too mamy times, and seen too many times as well.

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7

YorkManMar 10, 2016

12 Years a Slave is a powerful, emotive, haunting and, ultimately revealing tale about a free black man, who is tricked and then kidnapped, being forced into bondage, and sold into slavery.
As the title suggests, this lasts for 12 years,12 Years a Slave is a powerful, emotive, haunting and, ultimately revealing tale about a free black man, who is tricked and then kidnapped, being forced into bondage, and sold into slavery.
As the title suggests, this lasts for 12 years, before he's able to get a conscientious white man to pass on a message, which brings one of his former friends and associates to come and rescue him
So far, so good.
The film pulls no punches in its portrayal of life for a slave on a plantation. Long hours, repetitive work, threat of beatings (and death), not much food, risk of disease etc. As well as highlighting the inherent hypocrisy of the racist, white land/business owners, who seemingly justify their attitudes through judicious twisting of the tenets of the Bible.
It's a film you can't ignore, and has created debate around the world. Well written, well directed and brilliantly acted.

However, it just falls a little short of being a modern masterpiece and morality tale.
The main reason is that you can always sense it's based on a work of non-fiction, and is trying to be true to the author's observations and points of view.
As such, the director has to rein in the narrative, and therefore struggles to fill the run-time of the movie. There's not enough actual plot to sustain 132 minutes, and so many scenes just drag on with unnecessarily long tracking shots, or dialogue that adds nothing to either the plot or the characters.
Another issue I personally had was that the slaves in the film all spoke with good diction and pronunciation. It bugs me when historical films (especially one such as this which was praised for its' accuracy) don't apply proper accents/vocal inflections, during a time when we actually know how people spoke.
The other issue is that the ending is a good ol', US of A, 'feel good' ending.

They could have, and should have, concluded the film with a lingering, panning shot of the dozens of other slaves toiling away and who didn't manage to get 'rescued', those who were slaughtered by the thousand after the South surrendered at the end of the Civil War.....… Expand

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7

DawdlingPoetNov 23, 2021

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. 12 Years A Slave is a historical drama based on a biography/memoir by the main character of the film, Solomon Northup. It covers themes of freedom, property and ownership, plus dignity in the face of adversity, survival and endurance.

It is, understandably, quite a grim watch - there are scenes which are likely to make most people flinch, in which the various slaves are attacked or, alternatively (but effectively the same thing), tortured for daring to step out of line. Its a very sad fact that such activity was ever considered acceptable by people, people of any colour, ethnicity et al. I was aware of the subject matter before watching the film, so I wasn't especially shocked by the heavy content it contained. I feel its important for films covering such dark periods in societies past to be as realistic as possible and not to sugar coat things. I can't claim to be any kind of specific expert in this area historically but I can say that I believe the film to be certainly closely based on the biography of said Mr. Northup published in the 1800s.

I felt it was a pretty emotive watch as well, for obvious reasons. Chiwetel Ejiofor plays Mr. Northup and he does a very good job at portraying his character, seeming quite strong willed, yet also visually seeming upset, angry and frustrated at the relevant points in the plot, as you'd expect. I felt he really helped bring his character to life and it was little surprise to me to discover that he was nominated for an Oscar in the best performance by an actor in a leading role category in 2013. I feel it would be difficult not to feel sorry for Solomon and not to admire his determination to fight for his freedom, to believe he'll be able to regain it again.

Also cast is Benedict Cumberbatch, who plays Ford - one of the less violent slave owners. He is slightly more compassionate than others and comes across as a quite thoughtful character. Paul Giamatti plays Freeman, Adepero Oduye plays Eliza, another slave who lives alongside Solomon, Bill Camp plays Radburn and Michael Kenneth Williams plays Robert. As well as this, Michael Fassbender plays Edwin Epps, one of the biggest villains. I found his role to be really quite chilling at times. Oh and then there's a little known (ahem) actor called Brad Pitt, who plays a Canadian who comes to help out at Mr. Northup's slave owners residency and who plays an important part in the plot. He comes across as quite understated in this role.

The music used is quite good at intensifying what are clearly quite traumatic scenes, in heightening the sense of potential impending doom. The music is at times operatic in style, although not always.

Content wise, this film contains some offensive language, including, obviously, some racially offensive language (such as the 'N' word which many African Americans were referred to as at the time, in a perjorative sense). There is also, of course, some moderate violence, including bloody violence and torture scenes, which are quite frightening. As well as this, there are sex references, an implied rape scene (although no explicit nudity is shown) and moments of partial nudity present. Due to this, the film carries a 15 rating. According to what I've read online, the content pretty accurately reflects what we believe to have been carried out at the time (no doubt via the memoirs the film is based on), as sad as this is and as such it isn't regarded as being unnecessarily over-the-top, in a Hollywood/exploitation sort of a sense.

The plot pace felt a bit slow at times but then I suppose its important to convey how difficult it was for people like Mr. Northup, to attempt to abandon his slavery status. It isn't what may be called an enjoyable watch, for pretty obvious reasons but it didn't seem to shy away from things and, as I say, I felt that was somehow admirable. The film has a total running time of two hours and a quarter, so it isn't a short but sweet type of film but then neither should it be, I suppose. I do feel like this is a pretty memorable film. It did feel a little long winded but then scenes which maybe didn't specifically add a lot of context to the plot as such, did help towards building a better sense of character development, so I wouldn't really say that it unnecessarily dragged on. I also noticed (and appreciated) some nice, if but brief, shots of pretty sunsets shown at the end of scenes involving Mr. Northup laboring hard at work all day. You could argue that its showing the beauty in a place of such hard work and physical pain, so its a case of highlighting one extreme and then the other in the same area.

Yes I'd recommend this film as being an emotive watch about one mans struggles being caught up in a dark time in society's past. Chiwetel Ejiofor gives a great performance and while I found it to be an understandably hard watch, I felt it was a good film well made.… Expand

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7

AndrewHordMay 29, 2020

It is great film.Yes ,it is not a masterpiece,but it is obviously important film about very cruel period of America.

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7

AgentLviJun 27, 2023

Decent movie. The story is so --so, scoring is great, visual is decent, and the voice is also great

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6

NJWolfgangMar 13, 2014

I was quite disappointed by this film. Steve McQueen fails once again to illicit any empathy for his characters. The screenplay is sporadic and choppy. Visually it's common. The one thing is that the actors rise above the material. TheI was quite disappointed by this film. Steve McQueen fails once again to illicit any empathy for his characters. The screenplay is sporadic and choppy. Visually it's common. The one thing is that the actors rise above the material. The performances are capable. The direction lacks passion.… Expand

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6

khutchFeb 19, 2014

It's hard to find a flaw in "12 Years at Slave" is well directed, great photography, well-acted, but by his premise, can say I expected a more sweeping film, the heart beats a little too weak.

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6

nicholasbertJan 20, 2014

All in all, this film fails to impress. There are just a few moments when one embraces the supposed depth of it, but they aren't able to support the whole length. The acting is just sufficient, and the character of Solomon himself lacks theAll in all, this film fails to impress. There are just a few moments when one embraces the supposed depth of it, but they aren't able to support the whole length. The acting is just sufficient, and the character of Solomon himself lacks the development the film promises. The soundtrack is awful and seems to be made of only two tracks. Cinematography I would say is the best bit.

This film adds nothing to the account of slavery films, and this is somewhat shocking given it is a true story after all. One thing more: "Django Unchained" was heavily criticised for the constant use of the word **** with people ranting on and on about how it was inappropriate. That doesn't seem to apply to 12 Years a Slave for reason unknown. And, since I mentioned it, Django Unchained was a more likeable and even a more historically accurate film, without pretentiousness and without trying too much (or at all) to involve the viewer to a point when we feel a bit nauseated by this eagerness.… Expand

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6

SEROJMar 4, 2014

The only people i hate on this Earth are the racists! Everybody have to watch this movie and see how evil,gross and stupid people were at that time! GREAT actors, poor editing and a little over-rated though... this movie is going to make youThe only people i hate on this Earth are the racists! Everybody have to watch this movie and see how evil,gross and stupid people were at that time! GREAT actors, poor editing and a little over-rated though... this movie is going to make you cry and THAT'S ALL! Nothing else... based on a true story… Expand

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6

DruJFeb 8, 2014

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Familiar with the plight of Solomon Northup, I began my viewing experience of 12 Years a Slave with high expectations. It was shortly afterwards that my expectations were successfully lowered. While a dramatic story in itself, the film fails to create any semblance of drama. No attempt is made to develop the character of "wrongly enslaved" free African-American Solomon Northup (or almost any other character,. In a perplexing opening sequence, we are shown Solomon's life on a sugar plantation, well, not exactly his life but gratuitous shots of him laboring and having anonymous sex with a female field hand. So this is bondage?

With a second act seemingly 12 years long, the viewer is left wondering whatever became of basic story telling technique. No attention is given to setup. What Solomon Northup has achieved in order to live in apparent middle class comfort in the environs of affluent Saratoga NY is never satisfactorily explained. Somewhere in the tortuous second act, he relates he was once a laborer on the St. Lawrence Seaway, and was entrusted with a cargo delivery to Troy NY. An explanation that hardly supports his glimpsed portrayal as a prosperous man about town.

Mr. Northup is a family man, so we are shown, in a mere 4 minutes of screen time in the movie's meager first act. But as if suddenly remembered, Mr. Northup, along with the audience, is finally introduced to his family in an uncomfortable reunion at the movie's close. In what should have been a moment of triumphant joy, Mr. McQueen instead chose to portray it as an exercise in British-style restraint. The ending, as the movie itself, is soulless.

However, 12 Years a Slave may have inadvertently achieved a modicum of success on another level. For a country whose notions of slavery were formed by the pablum served up by Margaret Mitchell's "Gone With the Wind", 12 Years a Slave alternately portrays, (somewhat) the psyche of American slaveholders. Denial, delusions of racial superiority/inferiority, neurosis, scripture, combine to provide the slaveholding class with a sense of moral righteousness.

In the end, 12 Years a Slave's message, slavery was a nasty business, resonates only with those few who were somehow unaware of this country's "peculiar institution". Fewer still may however, come away with some awareness of just how this "nasty business" survived as long as it did. This is the best that can be hoped for with this effort.… Expand

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6

twenty-twentyOct 26, 2013

The problem with this amazing and unforgettable film is that it is comprised of unendurable and unrelenting human suffering. Because there is no relief for our hero-slave from beginning to almost the very end, it lacks a certain credibility.The problem with this amazing and unforgettable film is that it is comprised of unendurable and unrelenting human suffering. Because there is no relief for our hero-slave from beginning to almost the very end, it lacks a certain credibility. After the unrelieved cruelty that comes in a horrific procession from one scene to the next, we wonder, why was every single white human in this film corrupt, vicious,and cruel beyond imagination? So, Oscars will be awarded and rightly so, but I am warning my friends to think twice before enduring a movie that's so hard to watch.… Expand

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6

silverscreen061Jan 18, 2014

Chiwetel Ejiofor and Lupita Nyong'o give powerhouse performances, and absolutely deserved their Oscar nods. As a whole, though, "12 Years a Slave" is uneven. The film's depictions of violence and cruelty are wrenching, but there is veryChiwetel Ejiofor and Lupita Nyong'o give powerhouse performances, and absolutely deserved their Oscar nods. As a whole, though, "12 Years a Slave" is uneven. The film's depictions of violence and cruelty are wrenching, but there is very little underlying character or plot development. The viewer never really gets a full picture of Solomon's relationship with his family or the people he works alongside after being forced into slavery.… Expand

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6

ozymandias79Apr 18, 2015

I get it. Slavery was/is bad. But this movie lays it on too thick. Maybe all the high scores are from masochists. For the most part, good performances. Good cinematography also. Downside, long scenes of nothing (filler). The ending was alsoI get it. Slavery was/is bad. But this movie lays it on too thick. Maybe all the high scores are from masochists. For the most part, good performances. Good cinematography also. Downside, long scenes of nothing (filler). The ending was also very unsatisfying. They should have extended the movie instead of listing captions at the end. Not a gratifying ending with all things considered but still a better one than we were given.… Expand

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6

NotRogerEbertJun 21, 2014

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This film is simply overrated. Steve McQueen is by no means a bad director, but his characters are dull and brutal. They spend much of the movie torturing slaves as a sympathy tool, but it fails and makes you feel horrible. His freeing at the end feels meaningless and stupid. I don't understand why I don't like this movie, it simply rubbed me the wrong way.… Expand

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6

Onlyclassicvg1Sep 17, 2022

This film noir portrait of corruption and morally-compromised obsessions stars Welles as Hank Quinlan, a crooked police chief who frames a Mexican youth as part of an intricate criminal plot. Charlton Heston plays an honorable MexicanThis film noir portrait of corruption and morally-compromised obsessions stars Welles as Hank Quinlan, a crooked police chief who frames a Mexican youth as part of an intricate criminal plot. Charlton Heston plays an honorable Mexican narcotics investigator who clashes with the bigoted Quinlan after probing into his dark past. A memorable… Expand

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6

ptheodosie18May 13, 2022

Very gut wrenching at times, unfortunately the character development is lack luster and the movie is totally boring and too slowly paced.

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12 Years a Slave

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