Synopsis
Directed by Michael Apted (Gorillas in the Mist: The Story of Dian Fossey, Enigma, Enough) and original screenplay written by Academy Award® nominee Steven Knight (Dirty Pretty Things), Amazing Grace tells the story of a young British politician who over two decades fought against the English government to abolish slave trade.
William Wilberforce, played by Ioan Gruffudd (King Arthur, Fantastic Four, Black Hawk Down) was elected to the House of Commons at the young age of 21. Inspired by his close friend and mentor John Newton, played by Albert Finney (Erin Brockovich, Traffic, A Good Year) to campaign for the rights of freedom for all people; Wilberforce was unable to deter the fact that thousands of slaves were being inhumanly treated for the benefit of the English colony. Aided by his friend William Pitt played by Benedict Cumberbatch, who at the age of 24 became England's youngest ever Prime Minister. Pitt supports Wilberforce in his campaign against the British parliament to abolish the slave trade law.
With the help of a former slave turned businessman Olaudah Equiano, played by newcomer Youssou N'Dour, Wilberforce is able to document how brutal and callous slaves are being treated on British ships. Romola Garai plays Barbara Spooner, Wilberforce's future wife, who is equally as determined for alteration under the slave trade act and continued to support Wilberforce long into their marriage.
Amazing Grace also stars Michael Gambon (Sleepy Hollow), Rufus Sewell (Tristan + Isolde) and Ciaran Hinds (The Nativity Story, Miami Vice).
Feature Running Time: Approx 1:50:00
PG - Mild Themes