Amazing Grace

The struggle to abolish the English slave trade—successfully culminating in the 1807 Slave Trade Act—is celebrated in this earnest period film centering on William Wilberforce (1759-1833), the religiously-driven statesman who faced down opposition from entrenched economic interests in the British parliament. Unfortunately, as portrayed here by handsome Ioan Gruffudd, Wilberforce comes across as a slightly pallid, stilted figure, and the script doesn't tell us much about his early formative experiences. As a result, the viewer never really connects with him emotionally; in fact, even a late-life romance that inspires Wilberforce to take up the abolitionary cause seems more an intellectual meeting of minds than a deep attachment. Happily, however, a number of wonderful supporting characters often take the spotlight—Wilberforce's allies: Prime Minister William Pitt (Benedict Cumberbatch) and the deliciously worldly Lord Charles Fox (Michael Gambon); his parliamentary opponents: nasty Lord Tarleton (Ciaran Hinds), the foppish Duke of Clarence (Toby Jones), and duplicitous Lord Dundas (Bill Paterson); and, finally, John Newton (an impressive Albert Finney), the ex-slaver turned minister who not only inspired Wilberforce but also penned the famous hymn that serves as the film's title. While director Michael Apted's Amazing Grace is more workmanlike than inspired, it's still a solid, respectful treatment of a significant figure in the antislavery movement. Recommended. [Note: DVD extras include audio commentary by director Michael Apted and costar Ioan Gruffudd, a 28-minute “How Sweet the Sound” making-of featurette, “Finding Freedom: A Tour of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center” (7 min.), the music video for “Amazing Grace” performed by Chris Tomlin, discussion/study guides, and trailers. Bottom line: a fine extras package for a solid historical film.] (F. Swietek)