It’s hard to make a movie about a man imprisoned for years. Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, succeeds in conveying the moral significance of Nelson Mandela’s efforts to end apartheid in South Africa, but the film struggles to construct a cohesive narrative. One of the story’s central conflicts is between the philosophies of violent and nonviolent resistance. In the beginning, both Mandela (Idris Elba) and his wife, Winnie (Naomie Harris), believe violence is necessary to overthrow the oppressive white ruling class, but by the movie’s end, Mandela believes only peace and forgiveness will help the country move forward. Although that message is powerful, the movie does not explain why he’s had this change of heart, leaving the viewer a little lost.
Should You See It? Yes, but read up on the history first. —R.K.
Viewed at Chase Park Plaza Cinemas
