Amazing Grace-Review #5

I thought this film, Amazing Grace, (Directed by Michael Apted and written by Steven Knight) would be too much of a feel-good and overly preachy film-not that I didn't agree with the Hero's plight every whit (I knew it was about a man's fight against slavery before I saw it). I was pleasantly surprised. It was a BEAUTIFUL story without saccharin sentimentality . I was amazed to see how well this movie was edited, too. Bravo to Rick Shaine. The plot was well-put together and followable through flashbacks. The cinematography is beautiful to watch. Jenny Beavan, a veteran costume designer did very well with that aspect of this film. Late 18th-mid-19th century costuming in films are always a fun challenge for a costume designer I am sure. Research and more research besides hard work and historical vision.....and GUYS IN SUITS!! :-) (Wellllll, there are a lot of funny wigs and stuff in the film, but the general idea is that the costumes are well-done. LOL.)

Anyway, the subject of this historical film which is almost a biopic, really, is William Wilberforce. Wilberforce was TRULY ahead of his time in the area of anti-slave trade. He was extraordinary also in his loyalty to the crown, however,-not expected of a man of such revolutionary ideas. As a powerful M.P. he was above reproach in his loyalty to his country . He was also known for many other social reformations and political fights, but the anti-slavery fight is his legacy. I want to find out more about this man. ( I think a trip to the library is in order.)He is a fascinating character. Ioan Griffudd is Fabulous as Wilberforce. From the younger more energetic William to the ailing and despondent William, Griffudd is well keyed in to his character. The part of the story dealing with his meeting and falling in love with his wife is a wonderful story by itself. His wife-Barbara Spooner- is a brilliant and wonderful friend and a rock to him-and she is played well by Romola Garai. She shares his beliefs and is a trooper along with him in his fight for this monumental cause of humanity and morality. Albert Finney is in the film as the character John Newton who is the author of the song that the film is titled for. Finney is always great to watch. His charactrer in this film, as a repentant former slave trader, finally musters up the courage to face his demons and and find redemption from God (and hope to forgive himself) by helping Wilberforce (he gives his written testimony about his culpability in being a part of the heinous slave trade, and writes the Song "Amazing Grace" -by the way, Finney's character John must use a scribe to dictate this important testimony because he sadly becomes blind ). I really like this film. It is based on an AMAZING true story. Wilberforce is an amazing man-a man that answered the call of people who needed him. He could have chosen a quieter and more serene life as a cleric, but among so many important moments (the movie is full of great quotes as well)in the movie the character Hannah More tells him that he can serve both God and his fellow man by taking on this political fight-and he does. Worth a watch for sure. 3 out of 4 stars. Rated PG.