Cast: Idris Elba, Naomie Harris, Tony Kgoroge, Riaad Moosa

Directed By: Justin Chadwick

This much-awaited film is based on Nelson Mandela’s 1995 autobiography ‘Long Walk to Freedom’. The makers have put in a lot of hard work to chronicle in detail the Mandela unknown to the world, beginning from his childhood to his becoming the nation’s first democratically elected President of South Africa in 1994. It’s a story of a great leader, his love life and his fight for his people.

Idris Elba (Nelson Mandela) is a South African lawyer who joins the African National Congress (ANC) in the 1940s when the law under the Apartheid system's brutal tyranny proves useless for his people. Forced to abandon peaceful protest for armed resistance after the Sharpeville Massacre, Mandela pays the price when he and his comrades are arrested, and sentenced to life imprisonment for treason, while his wife, Winnie (Naomie Harris), is abused by the authorities herself.

Over the years, Mandela's fight for his people continues from the Robben Island prison. It soon gets international attention. Winne’s repeated visits to the prison keeps up his spirit to continue the fight. Over time, Nelson’s credibility increases and he is set free. But on the home front things are not looking good. Winnie, who in Nelson’s absence spearheaded the freedom struggle, has suddenly become ruthless in dealing with the people. This is not the way Nelson wanted it. The once passionate and lovely couple files for divorce and go their own ways.

Through mutual understanding and talks with leaders, Nelson paves the way for the freedom of his land and enters the mansion to become President. One of Nelson’s famous dialogues touches the heart. “No one is born hating another person because the color of his skin. People learn to hate. They can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart.”

You cannot miss Irish rockers U2 contribution to the film with ‘Ordinary Love’ which won Best Original Song at the 71st Golden Globe Awards.

Rating: ****

Reviewed By Verus Ferreira