Amazing Grace
Amazing Grace follows Wilberforce’s career through his 20’s and
30’s, as he and his fellow humanitarians make the issue of slavery a talking
point, not only in political circles, but also throughout the country. They wage
the first modern political campaign, using petitions, boycotts, mass meetings
and even badges with slogans to take their message to the country at large.
Boasting a terrific ensemble cast, Amazing Grace also stars Romola Garai as
Barbara Spooner, the beautiful and headstrong young woman who shares
Wilberforce’s passion for reform, and who becomes his wife after a
whirlwind courtship. Michael Gambon (Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban)
is Lord Fox, an MP that is convinced by Wilberforce to join the fight against
the slave trade. Rufus Sewell (Legend of Zorro) plays Thomas Clarkson, one of
Wilberforce’s allies in the anti-slavery movement, and Grammy winning
Senegalese singer Youssou N’Dour is Olaudah Equiano, an African sent as a
slave to the Colonies who bought his freedom and made his home in London where
he became a leading figure in the fight to end the slavery of his fellow
countrymen.
Critic Reviews:
- " Apted's unexpected crowd-pleaser is inspirational, but also
surprisingly entertaining. " – Nathan Rabin
- " Earnest drama about fervent English abolitionist. " –
Cynthia Fuchs
- " Impressively directed, politically relevant and occasionally
inspirational, this is an enjoyable, engaging drama with strong performances
from its talented cast. " – Matthew Turner