Island News & Views
General · 28th January 2008
Annette Yourk
AMAZING GRACE
Feb 1st, 2008 - Q.C.C.
Doors 7:30 - Showtime 7:45
Adm: $5 - $4 stu/snr.
We first meet William Wilberforce, the impassioned British parliamentarian who led the crusade to end the slave trade, in 1797. He is disillusioned by the guilt of a great failure – his inability to pass legislation abolishing slavery despite ten years of leading the charge. At every turn the old guard, who safeguarded the slave trade and funnelled the spoils into the pockets of the nations most powerful politicians, sabotaged Wilberforce's campaign. It took another eight years of work before the law was passed.
You don't win that kind of victory by being a layabout, and Wilberforce was a guy who worked tirelessly through chronic illness and medication-induced fuzziness. The story of Wilberforce's persistent campaign is an openhearted and enthusiastic film, an ode to William Wilberforce. It is also a tribute to the brave and simple act of declaring one's values and taking action. Contrary to popular belief, hippies didn't invent activism: The long, proud tradition of striving for social and politicl change stretches way back.
It is a fascinating look at a time, and a man worth remembering. The film is filled with English actors, veterans and relative newcomers alike. Iaon Gruffudd plays Wilberforce with a mix of earthiness, drive and reserved soulfulness. An inspiring film.
Feb 1st, 2008 - Q.C.C.
Doors 7:30 - Showtime 7:45
Adm: $5 - $4 stu/snr.
We first meet William Wilberforce, the impassioned British parliamentarian who led the crusade to end the slave trade, in 1797. He is disillusioned by the guilt of a great failure – his inability to pass legislation abolishing slavery despite ten years of leading the charge. At every turn the old guard, who safeguarded the slave trade and funnelled the spoils into the pockets of the nations most powerful politicians, sabotaged Wilberforce's campaign. It took another eight years of work before the law was passed.
You don't win that kind of victory by being a layabout, and Wilberforce was a guy who worked tirelessly through chronic illness and medication-induced fuzziness. The story of Wilberforce's persistent campaign is an openhearted and enthusiastic film, an ode to William Wilberforce. It is also a tribute to the brave and simple act of declaring one's values and taking action. Contrary to popular belief, hippies didn't invent activism: The long, proud tradition of striving for social and politicl change stretches way back.
It is a fascinating look at a time, and a man worth remembering. The film is filled with English actors, veterans and relative newcomers alike. Iaon Gruffudd plays Wilberforce with a mix of earthiness, drive and reserved soulfulness. An inspiring film.
Amazing grace – amazing film!
Comment by Robyn on 2nd February 2008
Very apropos to these times – the will to speak from one's convictions for a better world. This is a fine film indeed, and if you rent the DVD version you have the added bonus features that profile the film's making. Well worth taking the time.... it documents a period in world history that we do well to remember.
Thumbs up, as they say in the biz.
Thanks, Annette, for an inspiring review!
Very apropos to these times – the will to speak from one's convictions for a better world. This is a fine film indeed, and if you rent the DVD version you have the added bonus features that profile the film's making. Well worth taking the time.... it documents a period in world history that we do well to remember.
Thumbs up, as they say in the biz.
Thanks, Annette, for an inspiring review!