The realisation that the horrors of Solomon Northup's ordeals are entirely factual makes 12 Years A Slave all-the-more bitter to swallow, but despite such emotional turmoil, his inherent will to survive and desire to prove his rightful freedom makes him a truly liberating figure. Chiwetel Ejiofor's outstanding central performance is founded on the utmost respect and dignity, whilst ensuring every shade of tragedy is correctly palliated. A New York State-born free African-American man in 1841, Northup was unlawfully sold into slavery after being kidnapped. Here he endured a dozen years of abhorrent abuse across a number of plantations; forced to work, starve and worst of all, watch as his fellow slaves perish at the hands of a sadist planter. The heroism and perseverance of this great man is truly inspirational. Against all odds and expectations - let's face it, if you were trapped in such a ghastly situation, you'd feel as if there was simply no escape - Northup defied those who done him wrong by triumph of heart, will and determination. The film's closing sequences with he and his family inside their home is immeasurably moving.
Film and UFC obsessive with a passion for scribbling words about them. Avid NFL fan and big Chelsea supporter too.
Film Studies degree graduate from the University of Brighton.
