12 Years a Slave is an unflichingly authentic masterpiece that peers into an institution whose effects still reverberate.
And in his intended sense, he more than succeeded.
The movie opens in 1841 upon a relatively happy and content Solomon (Chiwetel Ejiofor).
Like Solomon, we rationalize the horror and underhanded evil far too late.
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That is only the first 15 minutes.
Solomons despair is so methodically institutionalized that even Hans Zimmers score rarely stops in its mechanical hiss toward oblivion.
And after Patsey, Solomon is their favorite slave to shower with attention.
12 Years a Slaveis unequivocally a great film, but also an undeniable challenge to watch.
And in his cracking of this story, McQueens uncompromising direction is as sharp as the lash.
This is not to say that the narrative lacks humanity or warmth.
The director also finds yet another muse and partner in his new lead.
But less than three months out from that time, its difficult to imagine there being a better one.
Den of Geek Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars
Rating:
5 out of 5
