There have been a lot of excellent films this year, but nothing that matches the impact of 12 Years a Slave. This is an exceptional biopic, a film that seemingly accomplishes all of its cinematic goals with staggering effectiveness. This movie is certain to get a Best Picture nomination come Oscar time, and at this point appears likely to win as well. It is easily among the best releases in recent memory.
Based on his 1853 autobiography, the adaptation tells the story of Saratoga, New York violinist Solomon Northup (Chiwetel Ejiofor). When his family leaves on a vacation, the musician accepts a job offer to play with two entertainers in New York City. But after being convinced to accompany them on a brief, celebratory trip to Washington, DC (where slave trading is still permitted), Northup is kidnapped, brutalized, shipped and sold to a plantation owner in Louisiana. With his “free papers” gone and no one willing to help him prove his identity, he is forced to endure shocking mental and physical hardships, including the wrath of a horrifically abusive and frequently drunk estate owner (Michael Fassbender).
Ejiofor is remarkable as Northup, emphatically conveying the agony, desperation and fear of his plight, often having to hold back his intelligence, thoughts and feelings so as not to face violent reprisal. The supporting roles are engaging as well and include familiar faces Benedict Cumberbatch, Paul Giamatti, Paul Dano, Paul Giamatti, Sarah Paulson and Alfre Woodard. While some of the nastier character’s actions are despicable, they don’t come across as typical, sneering villains from a Hollywood film – they are written in a believable, three-dimensional manner.
British director Steve McQueen (Hunger, Shame) is known for using long takes. He utilizes them to full advantage here, creating some bleak and thought-provoking images. Whether it’s a lengthy shot involving a dehumanizing act with a slow camera move up to the Washington skyline and The White House, or a gasping character hanging from a noose as others nonchalantly go about their daily duties, these moments are difficult to forget. They don’t hang on the screen for an excessive period of time, but long enough to make an indelible impression and occasionally allow a moment of private consideration. Additionally, the score by Hans Zimmer is sparse and repetitive, but incredibly effective at invoking an emotional response when it’s used.
Truthfully, it is hard to find fault with this film. There has been a bit of criticism in some circles regarding the brief appearance of actor Brad Pitt. While it may appear to some as stunt casting, he’s equally believable and appropriately understated in the role as a sympathetic visitor. Ultimately, it will only be jarring to those who find the simple appearance of the actor distracting.
It can be difficult to adapt such an epic story featuring very sensitive subject matter and not opt for grand and sweeping gestures. Thankfully, the film manages to create an intimate and authentic portrait of an incredible man by telling his tale with as little artifice as possible. By telling the story in a simple manner and without frills, it’s all the more engaging, believable and moving. 12 Years a Slave is easily one of the best of the year, and a film that is certain to be revisited by audiences years in the future.