Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom
Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom

Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom

2013
Movie
141 min
English

A chronicle of Nelson Mandela's life journey from his childhood in a rural village through to his inauguration as the first democratically elected president of South Africa.

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Insights

IMDb7.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes60%
Metacritic64/100
Google Users83%
Director: Justin ChadwickGenres: Biography, Drama, History

Plot Summary

This biographical drama chronicles the life of Nelson Mandela, from his childhood in a rural village to his inauguration as South Africa's first black president. It covers his education, his early career as a lawyer, his involvement in the anti-apartheid movement, his 27 years of imprisonment, and his eventual rise to lead the nation toward reconciliation and democracy.

Critical Reception

Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised Idris Elba's performance as Nelson Mandela and the film's ambitious scope in depicting the icon's life. While some critics found the narrative occasionally rushed or conventional, the film was widely acknowledged for its respectful portrayal of a significant historical figure and its powerful message.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praises Idris Elba's commanding and nuanced portrayal of Nelson Mandela.
  • Commends the film for its epic sweep and depiction of a pivotal historical struggle.
  • Notes that the film sometimes struggles to balance the personal and political aspects of Mandela's life.

Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated the film for its inspirational story and Idris Elba's strong performance. Many found it a moving and important depiction of Nelson Mandela's journey, though some wished for more depth in certain areas.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Original Score, and nominated for a BAFTA Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.

Fun Fact

Idris Elba actually recorded a rap song for the film's soundtrack, titled 'Lion', which was inspired by Nelson Mandela's spirit and struggle.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
DanDare

DanDare

Mandela: Long walk to Freedom is a straightforward biography which condenses Nelson Mandela's life without too many metaphors which pervades biopics these days. However at times too much of Mandela's life seems to be rushed through and oth...