Review

by Mia King

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Inspiring, Entertaining,
'Amazing Grace' Delivers

From director Michael Apted ("Coal Miner's Daughter," "The World is Not Enough"), comes this inspiring story of how one man's passion and perseverance changed the world. --Samuel Goldwyn Films, photo

The film "Amazing Grace" brings audiences to applause with its historical depiction of Great Britain's abolition of slave trade in the 18th century. The film delves into the life of British politician William Wilberforce's life between 1797 and 1807, during his struggle to help abolish the slave trade in England.

William Wilberforce, touched by God, wrestles with going into ministry through the church or carrying on with his life in politics. He turns to advice from trusted friends, namely the author of the song "Amazing Grace," John Newton. Newton previously made his living owning and operating slave trade ships but after his conversion became a worker in the church. In the movie, he was consistently haunted by the ghosts of the 20 some thousand Africans he shipped into slavery.

The film passionately depicts the ways British slave trade became abolished. The audience was obviously captivated by the characters and cause as many grunted and clapped at the end of speeches. Perhaps one of the greatest strengths of the film is its portrayal of England's parliamentary system, all fancied up with the official upper-class wigs and the antics members used during rousing debates.

The film is weak, however, in the sub plots. Wilberforce suffers a stomach condition for which he is prescribed Laudanum to cope with the pain. At one point he suddenly declares himself free from having to use the drug, and his stomach condition is never mentioned again, although up to that point it played an important role in the film.

The plots behind characters that help Wilberforce in his cause are also spotty. One key member dies without much explanation. Another important character, Thomas Clarkson, leaves London for Paris to investigate the French Revolution and isn't mentioned again until Wilberforce finds him in the hills talking to a baby.

Also, Wilberforce claims that the abolition of slavery is something the common people want, but they are never shown. They appear sparingly and never in opposition to slave trade.

Even with weak sub plots, the movie is entertaining. If nothing else, the film portrays a character that models ministry outside of the church. With enough meaningful content to arouse applause from an American theater, "Amazing Grace" proves a good investment. Though it needs some plot tuning, this film is still a singer.

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