The film uses a nonlinear approach to storytelling, as we actually begin during Northup’s time as a slave. That said, I will say that 12Years a Slave, like The Butler, is a well dome drama centered on a man’s journey during a particularly tumultuous period in America’s history. I try to avoid buzz words when it comes to visual mediums and just say what’s on my mind, not get in line and parrot what’s popular. It’s been called everything from “a film that needed to be made” to “one of the greatest films of all time.” It’s been compared to Schindler’s List in the way this film depicts slavery with the same stark filmmaking exhibited during List.

It’s received much critical praise for the performances and story. It’s about Northup’s journey that ends up providing him with the satisfying payoff that so many others like him had been denied or never experienced at all.ġ2 Years a Slave has already topped a lot of critics’ lists for best films of 2013. However, the film isn’t about the resolution or leading you along until the main character finds freedom. Given how this is based off of an already published novel, in addition to its title, we know that the protagonist won’t be in bondage forever and that the story most likely will end with his freedom. And that’s what director Steve McQueen managed to pull off with 12 Years a Slave.īased off of the 1853 memoir of the same name, 12 Years a Slave tells the story of Solomon Northup and the years he spent as a slave after being kidnapped and sold into slavery in 1841. They want to follow the journey of someone who comes out on top so the viewing experience was well worth the journey. They can face setbacks, sure, and they can have their moments to grieve or reflect, but I believe moviegoers are more likely to root for a fighter instead of a character who gets stuck or falls into despair. It requires a character who is a fighter. I think one of the elements required for creating a great drama is to craft a protagonist who perseveres despite the odds.

Edwin and mary epps