Watch Winnie Mandela

Winnie Mandela is a 2011 biographical film that tells the story of Winnie Mandela, a South African anti-apartheid activist and politician. The film traces her journey from a young girl in rural South Africa to becoming one of the most iconic figures in the struggle against a white-minority government that imposed a system of racial segregation known as apartheid.

The film features an impressive ensemble cast with Jennifer Hudson in the titular role of Winnie Mandela. Hudson's portrayal of Winnie is powerful and nuanced, capturing the complexity of her character which was sometimes controversial. Supporting her are Terrence Howard as Nelson Mandela, Elias Koteas as de Wet, and Wendy Crewson as Mary Botha.

Set against the backdrop of South Africa's turbulent political landscape, the film covers the period from the late 1950s to the early 1990s, shifting between Winnie's personal struggles and her public life as a leader of the African National Congress (ANC). The narrative also provides insight into the broader anti-apartheid movement, including the contribution of world leaders such as Archbishop Desmond Tutu and US civil rights activist Jesse Jackson.

The film explores the hardships endured by Winnie and her family as they were subjected to constant harassment and persecution at the hands of the apartheid regime. It delves into the psychological toll of being in a state of constant fear and uncertainty, as well as the toll it takes on relationships. Nonetheless, Winnie remains steadfast in her commitment to the cause of her people, becoming one of the most influential figures in the struggle for freedom and equality.

Throughout the film, we see the evolution of Winnie's character, from a young girl who dreams of a better life for herself and her people, to a fearless leader willing to put her life on the line for the fight against apartheid. We see her as a mother, a wife, a lover, a fighter, and a political activist, each of these roles shaping her identity and her legacy.

The film is anchored by Hudson's powerful performance, which embodies Winnie's strength, resilience, and complexity. Howard's portrayal of Nelson Mandela, while brief, provides a glimpse into the personal and political relationship between the two individuals, highlighting the pivotal role that Winnie played in shaping the struggle against apartheid.

Despite its clear sympathies, the film does not shy away from the more controversial aspects of Winnie's legacy. It shows her involvement in violent activities, including the infamous "necklacing" of suspected informers, and her later conviction for kidnapping and accessory to assault, which contributed to her falling out of favor with many in the ANC.

Ultimately, Winnie Mandela is a moving tribute to a woman who played a crucial role in the anti-apartheid struggle, a woman whose legacy represents both the best and the worst of the human spirit. Through Hudson's commanding performance and the film's compelling storytelling, we are offered a window into one of the most significant figures of the 20th century, showing us both her triumphs and her struggles, and leaving us inspired by her courage and resilience.

Winnie Mandela is a 2012 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 44 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.1 and a MetaScore of 37.