Freeman Shines as Mandela By: Ben Hayle, NMTV In Clint Eastwood’s most recent award season film Morgan Freeman stars as Nelson Mandela in the inspirational Invictus. The film is set in 1994-1995, Nelson Mandela has just been elected President in South Africa and the country is deeply divided along racial lines. After years of harsh rule by the white minority, the first free election in South Africa sees Mandela elected by the people. The film which also stars Matt Damon centers on Mandela’s attempt to unify his county. Mandela knew that he could not lead his country until his people were able to reconcile their differences.
Throughout history sports have been a vehicle behind which countries have been brought together. Just look at the sports we are all suddenly fans of during the Olympic. Because the jersey says U.S.A. across the front we are all watching water polo or curling! Mandela knew the power that sports had, and when South Africa was chosen to host the 1995 Rugby World Cup he knew that was the moment he would need to unify his country. Mandela formed a friendship with the white captain of the South African rugby team who is played by Damon. Mandela used the national rugby team, the Springboks, to inspire a nation and Eastwood is using this story to inspire audience in theatres across the world. The film is highlighted by the best single performance that I have seen in movie this year. Morgan Freeman was born to play Nelson Mandela and he does not disappoint. The film has a strong supporting cast lead by Damon. The storytelling feels so genuine; Eastwood and his cast are fully invested in bringing this story to the audience. Nothing felt forced or acted, it all felt so natural, you truly feel as though you are watching Nelson Mandela heal his nation. The message of reconciliation that the film brings to the audience is a message that is good for all to hear. The film is clear in its intention, but the message is not hammered into the audience. Finally, watch for a very moving scene near the end of the film between a squad of police men and a young African boy, it is a scene without any words but it is sure to bring a tear to your eye. Overall, in my opinion Invictus is the best film I have seen so far in 2009. Morgan Freeman gives the performance of his life in this 5 star film from Clint Eastwood.