Review of Amistad (1997) by Timothy S — 17 Jan 2012

Steven Spielberg is easily one of our greatest filmmakers of the last thirty years. He has been responsible for some of the biggest blockbusters of the last three decades, but the real measure of his gifts is his ability and willingness to tackle tough subject matters with respect and dignity.

He puts those skills to the test once more with "Amistad", shedding light on a dark and overlooked moment in our early American history. The dramatic moments here pack a punch and are as devastating as anything in "Schindler's List", but where this movie falters is in the pacing. It has a tendency to wander at times, and there are moments of grandstanding that do not pack the emotional weight they should.

The courtroom scenes are riveting, but the scene where the Africans chant about getting their freedom just doesn't ring true. And Anthony Hopkins is a powerhouse addition to any film, and he does deserve his Oscar nomination for this. But his big moment delivering a closing speech to the Supreme Court is a ramble that loses focus. Spielberg, though, is a master at casting his films, and this is certainly no exception.

Morgan Freeman and Djimon Hounsou are both fantastic, but the real news in the casting department is Matthew McConaughey. He's a lightweight who rarely strikes outside of his comfort zone of lame romantic comedies, but here he gives a commanding, likable performance stretching his dramatic legs.

"Amistad" is a compelling piece of work that derails here and there but never loses the viewer. It has moments that will weigh on your mind long after it's over, and it tells a vital story that has just as much relevance today.