Watch Amazing Grace

Amazing Grace is a 2006 biopic directed by Michael Apted about the life of William Wilberforce, an 18th-century British politician and abolitionist who dedicated his life to ending the slave trade. The film stars Ioan Gruffudd as Wilberforce, Albert Finney as John Newton, and Michael Gambon as Lord Charles Fox. The film begins in 1797 when Wilberforce, a member of the British Parliament, is introduced to a group of abolitionists who are seeking to end the slave trade. Wilberforce is hesitant to join the cause at first, fearing that his political career will suffer if he associates with a controversial movement. However, after witnessing the horrors of the slave trade firsthand during a trip to Africa, Wilberforce becomes a passionate advocate for abolition.

Throughout the film, we see Wilberforce’s tireless efforts to rally support for his cause, from speaking out in Parliament to gathering signatures for petitions to organizing rallies and marches. He faces opposition and criticism from powerful figures such as Lord Fox, who argues that the slave trade is necessary for the British economy, and from members of Parliament who accuse Wilberforce of meddling in foreign affairs.

The film also highlights Wilberforce’s personal struggles, including his chronic health problems and his romantic relationship with Barbara Spooner (played by Romola Garai), whom he meets while campaigning for abolition. Wilberforce’s faith plays a significant role in his life, and we see how his deep belief in God motivates him and gives him the strength to continue fighting for his cause in the face of adversity.

One of the most memorable scenes in the film is Wilberforce’s speech in Parliament in which he provides a graphic and emotional account of the atrocities committed against slaves. The speech, which is delivered with passion and conviction by Gruffudd, is credited with helping to galvanize public support for abolition.

Overall, Amazing Grace is a moving and inspiring film that provides a glimpse into the life of one of history’s most influential abolitionists. With strong performances by Gruffudd, Finney, and Gambon, as well as a powerful script and beautiful cinematography, the film is a testament to the power of determination and perseverance in the face of injustice.

Amazing Grace is a 2006 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 58 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4 and a MetaScore of 65.