Review of The Last King of Scotland (2006) by Joeaverage — 16 Apr 2007

Unfortunately, the film reminds me of Blood Diamond. As with that film, the makers of Last King let an seemly interesting story get overshadowed by the 'token' Caucasian protagonist and his story.

That the Scottish doctor never historically existed is even more galling. The film teases you with hints at Idi Amin's colorful past and motivation, but never lets Forest Whitaker deviate the character from the cliche of the 'charismatic dictator' .

Despite the constraints of the film, Whitaker gives a performance that rightly deserved the Oscar (which he gives in Ghost Dog and practically every other film he's been in). A wasted opportunity.

Makes Hotel Rwanda look practically revolutionary.