The Last King of Scotland
Fox Searchlight Pictures | Release Date: September 27, 2006
8.0
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 183 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
154
Mixed:
25
Negative:
4
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User scoreBy dateMost helpful
10
EverrettUMay 30, 2009
Highly rewarding drama with terrific performances.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
2
StephanieS.Mar 19, 2007
While Idi Amen degraded to the status of Dictator and maniacal murderer, this movie did little to establish the foundation for his rise to power. Many historically infamous individuals begin humbly and rise to rule, based upon their accurate While Idi Amen degraded to the status of Dictator and maniacal murderer, this movie did little to establish the foundation for his rise to power. Many historically infamous individuals begin humbly and rise to rule, based upon their accurate sense of what their people desire. Idi Amen was such a person. He was a 9-time heavyweight boxing champion and sargeant in the British military, who won the support and sponsorship of the British leadership. Being an African, one can easily conclude that this support was based, to some degree, on an enormous charisma and aptitude. While his political career was rife with abuse and tyrrany, it would have been appropriate to show some of the character he had to exhibit in order to command such broad based support, both from his own people, as well as the British government. Instead, the movie brings us into the latter years of an administration and personality gone off track and tending towards the manic. This may well be true, but no dictator has ruled that has not first been given permission. In addition, the rise of the young Scottish docctor seems utterly inappropriate, given Idi Amen's proven ability to win the favor of nations and people. A person of his considerable and terrible ability would not have been as easily trusting as the Idi Amen characterized in the film. Quite honestly, he had too much personal capital at stake to entrust it to someone with so little wit or wisdom. It is believed his true mentor was a member of the British Secret Service...this makes sense. Finally, the films portrayal of the African woman was utterly disgusting. I absolutely do not believe that women oppressed as they are by their muslim traditions and/or tribal rituals, would be so easily bedded. If this is the case for the average African woman, how much more applicable to the wife of the President, a dictator, a murderer. For if she did not fear him for her own life, she would have certainly feared him for the life of her son. There is no way any reasonable mother would enter so lightly into a situation that had such daunting implications. That this film would ask us to accept such a scenario is a disgrace to every mother of African decent, down to Margaret Garner, who attempted to kill her own children vs. see them sold into slavery. This portryal is a betrayal of the truth. I am disappointed that in 2007, we still have little tolerance for the truth regarding people of color. We are not beasts with passions like unto animals in heat or enraged, but a complex, human creation...sometimes touching the heavens and othertimes at the very gates of hell, but nonetheless human like unto all.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
5
TrueA.Mar 1, 2007
My main gripe with this film is that the true events it is inspired by are so few and far between that this story may as well have just been a complete work of fiction. I do not dispute that Africa has an ugly history, but I object to the My main gripe with this film is that the true events it is inspired by are so few and far between that this story may as well have just been a complete work of fiction. I do not dispute that Africa has an ugly history, but I object to the fact that the TRUE history is not shown... so many people base their opinions on world events on movies, so surely it makes sense to allow people to base their opinions on the truth, particularly if a movie is going to claim it is "based on true events"? Beyond that, the acting was of a high quality - apart from the accents of the American actors purporting to be African. Personally, I found Blood Diamond more memorable.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
SusanGOct 4, 2006
Wonderful performance by Forest....really keeps you on the edge of your seat.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
BlancoA.Sep 29, 2006
An outstanding film in every respect. Coming out of this film tonight, I can't think of anyone playing the role of Amin except maybe Yaphet Kotto, but he's probably a little too old for the role. Unbelievable color in this film. It An outstanding film in every respect. Coming out of this film tonight, I can't think of anyone playing the role of Amin except maybe Yaphet Kotto, but he's probably a little too old for the role. Unbelievable color in this film. It seduces you like the doctor is seduced by the situation, and it horrifies you in a similar way. I haven't had a visceral reaction to a film in quite the same way in a LONG time. Tremendous acting. A film which can't be ignored come Oscar time. On second thought. Screw the Oscars. The Academy couldn't tell acting talent from a hole in the wall. Just see the film.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
MichaelJ.Feb 3, 2007
Forest Whitaker shows us the performance of a lifetime. He frightenly represents Idi Amin in a way never shown before, his ellegance enlightened, his personality drawn out in its own beauty, and a leader represented well. James McAvoy also Forest Whitaker shows us the performance of a lifetime. He frightenly represents Idi Amin in a way never shown before, his ellegance enlightened, his personality drawn out in its own beauty, and a leader represented well. James McAvoy also brings us a great performance, he is drawn into a power he never asked for and his relationship to Whitaker is that of no other. While this movie is based off facts, it still does not represent history as it could; this is Hollywood so it should be suspected.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
JoeT.Oct 1, 2006
Amazing. Every single performance is superb; Forest Whitaker is electrifying. Tautly directed and edited, and the visuals are gorgeous. A harrowing experience.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
SusanP.Oct 18, 2006
This is Uganda in the 1970s; it was never going to be pretty.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
MauraCOct 24, 2006
My initial reaction to this movie was that I hated it. But once I got over the fact that Forest Whitaker is not the main character (despite all evidence in the previews), I decided it was actually a fairly powerful movie with some great My initial reaction to this movie was that I hated it. But once I got over the fact that Forest Whitaker is not the main character (despite all evidence in the previews), I decided it was actually a fairly powerful movie with some great acting. Whitaker was brilliant as always, though it was disappointing that he once again was cheated out of being the main character. The main character was a bit too much of a Romeo for my taste, and his quick ascension to "bosom buddy" status with a violent dictator was a bit hard to swallow. But the movie did present an interesting journey through McAvoy's character's mental/emotional struggles as he realized what Idi Amin was really all about. Worth seeing, just don't expect it to focus on Whitaker/Amin and you might enjoy it.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
NinaK.Oct 3, 2006
Amazing film.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
MichelleCOct 6, 2006
Whitaker is great and deserves all the Oscar buzz being generated. The last 30 minutes can be a bit hard to watch and are fairly upsetting.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
HawaU.Jan 20, 2007
A very captivating movie. One of the best I have seen in a long time. Forrest deserves an Oscar.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
MarcD.Feb 1, 2007
Whitaker's performance is simply breathtaking. He doesn't just steal the show...he inhabits the screen and makes every second of his presence felt in a manner which can only be compared to the most powerful of film personas. What Whitaker's performance is simply breathtaking. He doesn't just steal the show...he inhabits the screen and makes every second of his presence felt in a manner which can only be compared to the most powerful of film personas. What makes it all the more amazing is the fact that McAvoy almost matches him shot for shot. Almost...not quite though.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
RalphM.Mar 10, 2007
I recommend this movie in a Double feature with Amazing Grace as a study of the paths that two different lives can take. This is the best movie I have seen in a very long time.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
4
SpongeeeMar 19, 2007
As stated by others, this is a film about Africa made by white people for white people. The story is about the emotional and personal issues of a white protagonist. Whitaker does a great job with badly written script that has no character As stated by others, this is a film about Africa made by white people for white people. The story is about the emotional and personal issues of a white protagonist. Whitaker does a great job with badly written script that has no character development. Besides, none of the true historical tragedies of Uganda are shown. They are touched upon with photos within the 'story' and a factoid before the credits. Just as the movie shows, white people really know how to mess stuff up.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
RD.Mar 22, 2007
very unsettling movie mainly due to the excellent and chilling performance of idi amin as the brutal ugandan dictator. He is so good that you forget that this is a movie. It is almost as if youa re watching a documentary about Idi Amin shot very unsettling movie mainly due to the excellent and chilling performance of idi amin as the brutal ugandan dictator. He is so good that you forget that this is a movie. It is almost as if youa re watching a documentary about Idi Amin shot with archive footage of Idi Amin.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
AlaM.Mar 2, 2007
It is a movie of historical and fictional interaction that had ben made in a very good way. It does not meet the original novel but touches the life and gives an idea about the great problems of the 3rd world , the brutal dictators.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
4
JoeAverageApr 17, 2007
Unfortunately, the film reminds me of Blood Diamond. As with that film, the makers of Last King let an seemly interesting story get overshadowed by the 'token' Caucasian protagonist and his story. That the Scottish doctor never Unfortunately, the film reminds me of Blood Diamond. As with that film, the makers of Last King let an seemly interesting story get overshadowed by the 'token' Caucasian protagonist and his story. That the Scottish doctor never historically existed is even more galling. The film teases you with hints at Idi Amin's colorful past and motivation, but never lets Forest Whitaker deviate the character from the cliche of the 'charismatic dictator' . Despite the constraints of the film, Whitaker gives a performance that rightly deserved the Oscar (which he gives in Ghost Dog and practically every other film he's been in). A wasted opportunity. Makes Hotel Rwanda look practically revolutionary.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JayW.Apr 2, 2007
Strong (maybe too strong for some), but excellent film. While the characters may be a blend of many acutal people, the truth of the ruthlessness of Amin is not hyped or diminished. He was, as most dictators are, a horrible person who was Strong (maybe too strong for some), but excellent film. While the characters may be a blend of many acutal people, the truth of the ruthlessness of Amin is not hyped or diminished. He was, as most dictators are, a horrible person who was very willing to kill to silence his detractors. When will we see a movie like this about Castro, Sadam, or Che Guevara?!… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
MarkG.May 18, 2007
Forest and McAvoy both give stellar preformances in a brutal and real piece of film. True the film was subjected to some criticism, with all the praise focusing on Forest's brilliant interpretation of the infamous dictator but why did Forest and McAvoy both give stellar preformances in a brutal and real piece of film. True the film was subjected to some criticism, with all the praise focusing on Forest's brilliant interpretation of the infamous dictator but why did it take until now to recognise his brilliance?? People jumping on the bandwagon this year after ignoring Forest's splendid acting in Bird and Ghost Dog should try in future to recognise an actor's potential long before the critics stir up a whirlwind about a recent performance. The film contains some brilliantly worked scenes and the way the angles constantly vary allow us to look at the life of Idi Amin as both an insider and an outside observer. McAvoy does a fine job of portraying a difficult character but it is Whitaker's hypnotic screen presence as he shows us his ferocity and helplessness simultaneously, that makes the film masterful.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
LizSMay 2, 2009
I think this was a great movie,,, whether it be fact or fiction, it does depict the horror of indi amin's reighn of terror!!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
3
JustinA.Oct 15, 2006
If you are actually interested in 1970's Uganda, an infinitely better movie to watch is General Idi Amin Dada, a documentary by Barbet Schroeder. My problem with The Last King of Scotland is not so much having a white protagonist, nor If you are actually interested in 1970's Uganda, an infinitely better movie to watch is General Idi Amin Dada, a documentary by Barbet Schroeder. My problem with The Last King of Scotland is not so much having a white protagonist, nor making that protagonist privy, Zelig-like, to every major event during Amin's rule. Rather, its creating a fictitious figure at all, especially one, who, according to the narrative, played such a significant role in the narrated events. Really, see Schroeder's film and see Amin himself. He's much more gripping (and strange and terrifying) than Forrest Whitaker.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
MikeDNov 6, 2006
How anyone can give this movie less than an 8 is beyond me. It's gripping and compelling. Forest Whitaker is amazing. It's ashame that cinema like this does not get more exposure in the United States. A true work of art. Go see it period.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
LizV.Jan 21, 2007
Forest Whitaker was amazing, but McAvoy's perfomance is outstanding as well. A lesser actor would have easily been eaten up by Whitaker's performance. McAvoy's Nicholas stands toe to toe with Whitaker's Amin which makes Forest Whitaker was amazing, but McAvoy's perfomance is outstanding as well. A lesser actor would have easily been eaten up by Whitaker's performance. McAvoy's Nicholas stands toe to toe with Whitaker's Amin which makes for a riveting story. I highly recommend this movie. I thought it was excellent!… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
BillyS.Jan 20, 2007
When an actor takes on what is essentially a supporting role and makes such an indelible impression by stamping it with his own unique brilliant take on the material, no matter what else he ever does in his career, he will always be When an actor takes on what is essentially a supporting role and makes such an indelible impression by stamping it with his own unique brilliant take on the material, no matter what else he ever does in his career, he will always be remembered for that single performance. Anthony Hopkins did just that in Silence of the Lambs and went on to win an Oscar for Best Actor and it looks like it'll happen again this year when Forest Whitaker walks away with the Best Actor Oscar for his mesmerizing performance as Idi Amin in The Last King of Scotland! To critique the rest of the movie, which is really about James McAvoy as a doctor who wins the facvor of Amin, is not even needed because the only thing is the astonishing, once in a lifetime performance of Mr. Whitaker, an actor who has been simmering right below the boiling point for many years now and as Idi Amin, he finally explodes!! A 100 years - 100 performances lock!… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
JudyT.Jan 22, 2007
Great performance by Forrest Whitaker. Definitely Oscar worthy. James McAvoy is also very good in a role that makes you hate him and feel sorry for him at the same time.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
HalB.Apr 28, 2007
A very flawed movie, as other "user reviews" have noted here. Not sure if it wants to be a docu-drama, a character study or just more Hollywood drivel. I actually feel badly for McAvoy -- a strong actor thrown into a pretty unsympathetic A very flawed movie, as other "user reviews" have noted here. Not sure if it wants to be a docu-drama, a character study or just more Hollywood drivel. I actually feel badly for McAvoy -- a strong actor thrown into a pretty unsympathetic role; he serves mainly as a plot device, the white do-gooder thrust into another culture, which tests him and finds him very lacking. Saved primarily by Whittaker's strong performance and some excellent scenes & accompanying sountrack. This movie could have been so much more, so much better.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
CraigP.Apr 30, 2007
Forest Whitaker IS Edi Amin....he so deserved the Oscar!!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
TiffanyM.May 11, 2007
This movie far surpassed what I thought it would be. I came across it on HBO, after not hearing much about it, and settled in to fall asleep. NO SLEEPING HERE. Forest Whitaker and James McAvoy were great! There was loads of drama- sexual This movie far surpassed what I thought it would be. I came across it on HBO, after not hearing much about it, and settled in to fall asleep. NO SLEEPING HERE. Forest Whitaker and James McAvoy were great! There was loads of drama- sexual scandals, abuse, mass killings, love, COMEDY... it was great. No wonder Ol' Forest took home the Oscar!… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
PnArdyPnArdyMay 13, 2007
A masterpiece portraying the dictator Amin's character and his cruel and barbaric regime in Uganda, Africa. Forest Whitaker was incredibly good in this drama and got Oscar.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
SohailA.May 23, 2007
The acting was awesome, but the movie could have used a little bit more direction/meaning as a whole.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
GregE.Jun 24, 2007
This movie blew me away. This a true story, and it really struck a chord with me how this one no-name doctor becomes involved in such an involved scene 10/10 This movie is one of the best of all time
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
NickA.Jun 29, 2007
Forest Whitaker inhabits the heartless monster of Idi Amin, Uganda
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
elabOct 24, 2008
The un-until-now-highly-underrated Forrest Whitaker is brilliant in this. As Amin manages to swing from charming and almost jovial to a cold, heartless dictator. Idi Amin is rather underrespresented as far as evil dictators go but this was The un-until-now-highly-underrated Forrest Whitaker is brilliant in this. As Amin manages to swing from charming and almost jovial to a cold, heartless dictator. Idi Amin is rather underrespresented as far as evil dictators go but this was an unforgettable film. McAvoy makes us care about a rather selfish, materialistic young character. Even if you are unfamiliar with the situation in 70s Uganda this will be a film which stays with you for a long time. Now for a bit of a whinge. I wish people wouldn't suggest it's not a good film because it's told from a white man's point of view, it was Forrest Whitaker who won the Oscar and BAFTA not James McAvoy (although I think he deserved the Best Supporting Actor BAFTA). I do feel the need to point out also that the Last King of Scotland is rated 15, but if you have kids around 15 I wouldn't let them watch it if I were you, there are images of a graphic mutliation and a torture scene.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
HaseebQJul 24, 2008
An awesome movie, and a true epic. Defintely one to see again, and very informative also. Forest Whitaker is an amazing actor in this movie. 10/10 without a doubt.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
KadyCOct 12, 2006
Forget the hype of box office hits. If you want to see superb acting, from a true actor, who takes his role seriously and makes you feel like you are not watching a movie, but a re-enactment; go see Last King of Scotland. This film is for Forget the hype of box office hits. If you want to see superb acting, from a true actor, who takes his role seriously and makes you feel like you are not watching a movie, but a re-enactment; go see Last King of Scotland. This film is for grown folks, who understand the issues and stereotypes surrounding, race, power, politics, and economics. See a good movie this year, I implore you, you will not leave the theatre untouched, can guarantee it.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
FilmfanNov 3, 2006
Forest Whitaker is amazing, so too James McAvoy. The movie is very involving and unsettling. My only complaint is a few action scenes and graphic shots which I thought unneccesary- the threat and the violence implied through the acting was Forest Whitaker is amazing, so too James McAvoy. The movie is very involving and unsettling. My only complaint is a few action scenes and graphic shots which I thought unneccesary- the threat and the violence implied through the acting was enough. Nice cinematography.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
KurtL.Nov 5, 2006
McAvoy seems too young to be convincing in this role. But the concept is clever and Whitaker is excellent. Gillian Anderson looks really good in this movie and she played the symbolic voice of reason very well.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
RichCOct 21, 2006
Ya gotta LOVE the chilling performance by Whittaker!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
StuartS.Oct 21, 2006
Whitaker will be nominated for an Acadamy Award for an incredible portrayal of Edi Amin. A lot of history you might not be totally familiar with and you will enjoy learning about. Not to be seen by those who are squeamish.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
TimMOct 23, 2006
This movie is good, but its not great. I wish there was more focus upon the actual events and genocide occurring in Uganda, rather than upon the relationship between Amin and the Scot. [***SPOILERS***] There were random unnecessary parties This movie is good, but its not great. I wish there was more focus upon the actual events and genocide occurring in Uganda, rather than upon the relationship between Amin and the Scot. [***SPOILERS***] There were random unnecessary parties and sex scenes which did not add to the picture, but rather detracted from the director's credibility. Also, there was random rock guitar music during some tense moments which was completely off. The best part of this movie was Whitaker… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
NielMcDreamSep 27, 2006
Forest Whitaker, uncorking the power that he usually holds in check, gives a chilling, bravura performance as Ugandan tyrant Idi Amin, whose bloody regime slaughtered more than 300,000 people. This intelligent, sometimes gruesome thriller is Forest Whitaker, uncorking the power that he usually holds in check, gives a chilling, bravura performance as Ugandan tyrant Idi Amin, whose bloody regime slaughtered more than 300,000 people. This intelligent, sometimes gruesome thriller is based on a novel by Giles Foden. The film is phenomenally well directed by Kevin Macdonald and edited by Justine Wright to bring out every bit of scary volatility in the most casual interactions.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
[Anonymous]Sep 27, 2006
Drawing on a documentary visual style he deftly employed in "One Day in September" and "Touching the Void," director Kevin Macdonald uses McAvoy's boyishness to treat Garrigan's apolitical foolishness as yet another damn mess in Drawing on a documentary visual style he deftly employed in "One Day in September" and "Touching the Void," director Kevin Macdonald uses McAvoy's boyishness to treat Garrigan's apolitical foolishness as yet another damn mess in one African country's hell. The Last King of Scotland is a parable shocking in its truth, jolting in its lack of sentimentality, Shakespearean in its vision of the doctor's catastrophic flaw. Possibly one of the best movies of the last 10 years. A unforgettable Oscar performance.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
BenA.Jan 16, 2007
Beautifully shot, utterly gripping. Forest Whitaker gives an outstanding performance as the psychotic Amin.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
SamC.Jan 21, 2007
If not the best preformence by a male actor of all time, close to it. I have never seen an actor invest more in a role or capture the real internal motivations of his character. Brilliant!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
ChadS.Jan 21, 2007
For me, the most intriguing aspect of "The Last King of Scotland" is the tantalizing possibility that Leni Riefenstahl was telling the truth. Even though "Triumph of the Will" implicates her as a Nazi sympathizer by what's judiciously For me, the most intriguing aspect of "The Last King of Scotland" is the tantalizing possibility that Leni Riefenstahl was telling the truth. Even though "Triumph of the Will" implicates her as a Nazi sympathizer by what's judiciously omitted from the crowd-inciting speeches; Nicholas(James McAvoy) amazingly has no idea about the Ugandian holocaust. "The Last King of Scotland" has an ingenious way of treating McAvoy's relationship with Idi Amin as a pleasant nostalgic trip, because the young doctor was indeed enamored with the vicious, but charismatic dictator. If this adaptation is accurate, the real-life McAvoy must be plagued with some residual affection for Amin. Forrest Whitaker does an awesome job of being genuinely congenial without any undercurrent of menace; to do so would make a contemporary audience wonder why the world wasn't onto Amin's act a lot sooner. This is a powerful, and very smartly photographed film.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
RaphaelM.Feb 13, 2007
Stunning performances, extremely well shot and great music, for a full tension film that will get you pinned to your seat. Awesome!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
JohnB.May 19, 2007
It's the realistic and totally believable performance of Forest Whitaker that pulls this movie through. The Last King of Scotland brings us to Idi Amin's world and the life changing story of a man that finds his original intentions It's the realistic and totally believable performance of Forest Whitaker that pulls this movie through. The Last King of Scotland brings us to Idi Amin's world and the life changing story of a man that finds his original intentions turned upside down through unforeseen circumstances. This movie is as much fiction as it is a movie that brings awareness to an important time in history.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
PatC.May 21, 2007
This is an unvarnished study of a naive empty vessel of a young man without direction. Fresh out of medical school, he knows only that he doesn't want to live under his father's direction. As a result he finds himself living under This is an unvarnished study of a naive empty vessel of a young man without direction. Fresh out of medical school, he knows only that he doesn't want to live under his father's direction. As a result he finds himself living under the direction of the catastrophically insane. The movie stumbles tentatively from scene to scene, but Whitaker sells it anyway. In the end it will stay with you. Quite an achievement really.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
4
leirisNov 19, 2006
Whitaker was amazing in this...but the movie overall seems to be just another movie about Africa made for white people. After it was over I found no real point in the film
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
RaulL.Dec 23, 2006
Forest Whitaker deserves an oscar for best actor. This movie will leave you at the edge of your seat. the story, the cinematography, the performances, it is a masterpiece. The best movie of the year, no doubt.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
drlowdonAug 12, 2013
In the early 1970’s Scottish doctor Nicholas Garrigan headed to Uganda to help bring medical aid to poverty-stricken locals. He soon he finds himself hired as Idi Amin’s personal physician but quickly discovers the dictators’ charms hide hisIn the early 1970’s Scottish doctor Nicholas Garrigan headed to Uganda to help bring medical aid to poverty-stricken locals. He soon he finds himself hired as Idi Amin’s personal physician but quickly discovers the dictators’ charms hide his murderous regime.

The first half of movie provides a meaty examination of Amin’s savagely violent regime. His false charm quickly gives way to his true nature and Forrest Whitaker gives an excellent portrayal of the dictator coming across as the eccentric and truly terrifying man that he was. Once Garrigan becomes aware of what is really going on in the country the movie becomes more of a thriller than character study as he attempts to escape with his life. Some of the scenes towards the movies end are perhaps a little Hollywood and not completely fitting with the movies original tone. They are however still undeniably exciting and with James McAvoy giving an assured performance throughout The Last King of Scotland is certainly an interesting and entertaining movie.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
8
avatar16Nov 6, 2011
Le Dernier Roi d'Ecosse est un film dont on ne sort pas indemne, de part sa noirceur et sa violence. Non pas qu'il soit violent comme tant d'autres films traitant sur les gouvernements et les génocides africains, mais le filmLe Dernier Roi d'Ecosse est un film dont on ne sort pas indemne, de part sa noirceur et sa violence. Non pas qu'il soit violent comme tant d'autres films traitant sur les gouvernements et les génocides africains, mais le film reste percutant par son propos. Soit une histoire d'amitié entre le président ougandais de l'époque Idi Amin Dada et son médecin personnel, Nicholas Garrigan. Mais cette amitié va se détériorer quand ce dernier va découvrir la véritable nature du dirigeant. Un film magistralement interprété (impeccable Forest Whitaker), qui évite les scènes de violence (exécutions, massacres...) en les annonçant par les médias ou bien par des extraits très courts. De ce fait, nous découvrons les atrocités en même temps que Nicholas, ces atrocités qui lui étaient cachées comme pour le reste du monde. Un peu surpenant pour son petit côté pop et bon enfant par moment, Le Dernier Roi d'Ecosse est un film puissant!… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
9
Compi24Nov 28, 2012
"The Last King Of Scotland" is the mostly true story of Nicholas Garrigan (McAvoy), a young Scottish physician who travels to Uganda and eventually becomes the personal doctor to the dictator, Idi Amin (Whitaker). Directed by Kevin MacDonald,"The Last King Of Scotland" is the mostly true story of Nicholas Garrigan (McAvoy), a young Scottish physician who travels to Uganda and eventually becomes the personal doctor to the dictator, Idi Amin (Whitaker). Directed by Kevin MacDonald, this movie certainly struck a few dissonant chords with me. I'm not saying the film was bad, in fact I found it "The Last King Of Scotland" to be a very remarkable motion picture. However, it is a deeply disturbing piece that aims to show the audience just how deranged Idi Amin was as Uganda's President. Which brings me to the film's most noteworthy aspect - Forest Whitaker's amazing, Academy-Award Winning turn as Idi Amin himself. Forest Whitaker's performance in "The Last King Of Scotland" is incredibly dynamic because at times I found myself laughing, gasping, and cringing in anger at some of the things that Whitaker did on screen. Some of the stuff that Whitaker's Amin does in this movie is truly frightening and really made me realize just how much of a megalomaniacal sociopath Amin was in real life. In fact there is one moment in this movie (one that I won't fully disclose due to it's grisliness) where I found myself just gaping at my television set - yeah stuff gets pretty grotesque. Obviously, Whitaker rightfully earned the Oscar For Best Actor in 2007. As for James McAvoy, he did a great job in his role as the doctor who just can't seem to escape the madness of Idi Amin, and throughout the movie you really learn to feel for his character. The script, of course, was brilliantly written, as it was adapted from the reportedly excellent Giles Foden novel of the same name. In terms of cinematography, I thought that the film's use of close-up shots on Amin really helped to accentuate his sheer madness and insanity. As for the rest of the camera work everything looks clean and efficient. All in all, I found "The Last King Of Scotland" to be a very remarkable, and disconcerting film that effectively used it's brilliant performances and impressive script to highlight the sheer terror that Idi Amin inflicted upon Uganda and it's people.… Expand
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All this user's reviews
8
worleyjamersJun 2, 2013
Whitaker completely deserved his Oscar for Best Actor; both he and James McAvoy give fantastic performances to carry this film to a climax that is exciting and thrilling. Many good films came in 06, and this film is one of them.
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8
AlessandroOdoJun 28, 2013
Wow, this movie remembers you how people like Amin comes in different countries, but in the same way. The plot is about a guy, that actually didn't exist, it's because (I think) the director wanted to show the events from a different point ofWow, this movie remembers you how people like Amin comes in different countries, but in the same way. The plot is about a guy, that actually didn't exist, it's because (I think) the director wanted to show the events from a different point of view, a "white" man working for the president. This film is really good, there are no regrets.… Expand
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10
morfilJun 14, 2013
The last king of Scotland is scorcher of a film that follows the story of the horrid dictatorship that took over Uganda in the 70s. The movie is seen completely through the eyes of young Nicolas Garrigan James Mcavoy), a young ScottishThe last king of Scotland is scorcher of a film that follows the story of the horrid dictatorship that took over Uganda in the 70s. The movie is seen completely through the eyes of young Nicolas Garrigan James Mcavoy), a young Scottish doctor who decides he is tired of Scotland and ready to venture into another country to make a difference.

Soon after he begins his work in the town he begins a friendship with Idi Amin (Forest Whitaker), a powerful African leader who offers Garrigan a job as his personal doctor. Their developing relationship is wonderful to behold on screen, and for me was the main strength and the key point that made this movie go above and beyond.… Expand
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8
FranzHcriticAug 24, 2013
The movie presents enough of what is realistic to make this story seem interesting. Forest Whitaker is absorbed into the role, perhaps more intimidating than the real Idi Amin. He manages to make people overlook his teddy bear face to see theThe movie presents enough of what is realistic to make this story seem interesting. Forest Whitaker is absorbed into the role, perhaps more intimidating than the real Idi Amin. He manages to make people overlook his teddy bear face to see the terror of Idi Amin and what he caused.… Expand
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8
ydnar4May 4, 2015
Idi Amin was one of the worst people to ever walk the Earth but because he was the ruler of Uganda many people in North America knew nothing about him. Big Forest Whitaker is the ideal man to play Amin and he really does resemble him in theIdi Amin was one of the worst people to ever walk the Earth but because he was the ruler of Uganda many people in North America knew nothing about him. Big Forest Whitaker is the ideal man to play Amin and he really does resemble him in the film. Whitaker gets a well deserved Oscar winning performance in this film. The further the film goes the movie evil he becomes. James McAvoy also gets my attention in this movie. His performance is a great rival to Whitaker's and he shows a lot of potential which I don't think has reached fully yet. David Oyelowo had a strong performance as well but sadly he was underused. Some of the issues I had with this film where that sometimes McAvoy gets a bit too much of the attention. The character McAvoy is playing was fictional and sometimes he took time away from Amin who was the real man. Also I found the film very graphic so if you have a weak stomach I would sit this movie out. After I thought about it though the film does need to be disturbing so the audience can be aware of Amin's evil.… Expand
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8
CineAutoctonoJul 22, 2019
The Last King of Scotland, was a historical film that shows in both real and fictional perspectives about the life of one of the most bloodthirsty dictators ever, Idi Amin. Forest Whitaker made a very good interpretation of the dictator, theThe Last King of Scotland, was a historical film that shows in both real and fictional perspectives about the life of one of the most bloodthirsty dictators ever, Idi Amin. Forest Whitaker made a very good interpretation of the dictator, the story besides good is also brutal, since it shows scenes that make Idi Amin as powerful as brutal.… Expand
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9
alejandro970Jul 13, 2019
Inspired on true events, about how Scotch Nicholas Garrigan (fictional) became the GP and confident of Idi Amin Dada (outstanding Whitaker), who start as idealist and finished as one of most deranged and wickedest dictators of Africa.
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10
JPKJul 18, 2019
Terrific Film
Whitaker’s performance as Idi Amin is terrifying, brutal, and barbaric and is a replica of one of the most evil men in history.
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7
amheretojudgeSep 4, 2018
and the execution that satisfies it..

The Last King Of Scotland The Last King Of Scotland is a character driven drama about a friendship between two polar opposite personalities that is explored through geopolitical perspective. The premiseand the execution that satisfies it..

The Last King Of Scotland

The Last King Of Scotland is a character driven drama about a friendship between two polar opposite personalities that is explored through geopolitical perspective. The premise requires extraordinary chemistry between the lead characters and is delivered unflinchingly by the cast through their performance. But the primary reason why it works is that it isn't based upon one's textbook formula of depicting the bonding from the scratch. These pragmatic characters bonds instantly with mature mutual objectives or ideology and the makers have somehow managed to keep it on the edge of the storyline that leaves the audience uncertain and unaware of the repercussions that it is breeding or where the track is leading to. The writing is mature, adaptive and layered if not gripping, but is certainly worth the work it offers. The background score isn't impressive but few songs are up beating along with metaphorical cinematography and fine editing. The camera work with unusual theme draws the attention which is then celebrated by the cultural references and the knack for projecting inherent rituals that is well detailed. McDonald's world is bolder and much smarter but as much as work it has invested on the semantics, it fails to foliate the subjective procedure of it. As mentioned earlier, Whittaker has never been so convincing and so confident and on the other hand, McAvoy shows some promising range on portraying vulnerability and slick persona. The ruggedness among the three dimensional characters, its perpetual ideology and panache on methodology and, stellar performance that fuels this drama are the high points of the feature.

Armed with a fascinating and creative structure, The Last King Of Scotland is an art that demands to be explored upon and its the writing that demands it and the execution that satisfies it.… Expand
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9
FilipeNetoFeb 23, 2018
Based on true events, this film depicts the life and personality of Ugandan dictator Idi Amin. Directed by Kevin Macdonald, this film has a screenplay by Jeremy Brock and Peter Morgan. The cast is led by Forest Whitaker and James McAvoy.Based on true events, this film depicts the life and personality of Ugandan dictator Idi Amin. Directed by Kevin Macdonald, this film has a screenplay by Jeremy Brock and Peter Morgan. The cast is led by Forest Whitaker and James McAvoy.

This film portrays, mostly, real facts which are part of the dark side of the history of a young African country: Uganda. Idi Amin led the country with an iron fist, not hesitating to kill all potential opponents. Despite all the cast have played their role with great quality, Whitaker deserves mention: he knew perfectly incorporate the several facets of this highly contradictory historical character: in some moments, his thought and personality can seem very positive but, as the film is rolling, the audience increasingly contacts with the darker side of a deeply paranoid personality, worthy of a Caligula. Whitaker was truly intimidating, and the staff of characterization and costume managed to complete his work by giving him a strong physical resemblance to the real dictator. So its not surprising that Whitaker has won (with merit) the Oscar for Best Leading Actor. But be friend with someone like Amin means walking on the edge of a knife and too close to death. The character of McAvoy, a young idealistic and naive doctor from Scotland who went to Africa in search of adventure, shows us these dangers, and its delightful to see his mind awakening to the problems of that country, while contacting directly with the madness of his new African friend.

Visual, special and sound effects were very good, especially in the most stunning scenes, and scenarios easily transport us to Africa. The script, in turn, is quite consistent and realistic, not falling into exaggeration nor blistering action scenes. Everything went as it should, everything was done in the correct measure.… Expand
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10
40mangunshotMar 18, 2020
One of the best biographical films ever made. Forest Whitaker played the role of Ugandan president Idi Amin perfectly and James McAvoy was simply amazing as the role of Nicholas Garrigan. Definitely one of the best movies I've seen in aOne of the best biographical films ever made. Forest Whitaker played the role of Ugandan president Idi Amin perfectly and James McAvoy was simply amazing as the role of Nicholas Garrigan. Definitely one of the best movies I've seen in a while.
An absolute Must-Watch masterpiece.… Expand
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6
ehuismanApr 20, 2020
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. With the graphic and compelling depictions of violence and Whittaker's lifetime performance of Amin, The Last King of Scotland gets at least a couple of things right. It is all the more shame that it feels the need to slip into a sensationalized thriller escape. It puts forth some decent cultural-ethnic touches, and then gets its all wrong in its notion of a happy ending, which is: all the white people are fortunately saved. In the end, there's just too much Hollywood at work for such a dark and brute historical reality.… Expand
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