A United Kingdom

I’m very happy with this growing trend of true-life black historical figures being brought to the big screen. They're naturally compelling, with many of them dealing with overcoming tremendous (often racially motivated) adversity and a diverse cast often means new actors getting their chance to shine. With stories like the one in “A United Kingdom”, you often get the added bonus of seeing places and events you know little or even nothing about.

Set shortly after WWII, the heir to the throne of Bechuanaland, Seretse Khama (David Oyelowo), is finalizing his education in London. When he falls in love with Ruth Williams (Rosamund Pike), the two marry, but their union is met with disapproval.

Shortly after Ruth and Seretse fall in love, they are bombarded by people telling them “NO! ” Racist thugs on the streets, government agents, even the couple’s families insist repeatedly that they should annul their marriage and separate, that their love is more trouble than it’s worth… and at first, I agreed. I sympathized with the newlyweds, but come on. You’ve got South Africa’s Apartheid developing just across the border, Ruth is in a country she’d never even heard of before, the man’s got a kingdom to run… isn’t it possible that they might have gotten a little carried away?

The performances in the film are quite good, particularly Oyelowo and Pike. The longer the two are on-screen, the more you grow attached to them as a couple, and the angrier you become at those who would seek to tear them apart. What at first appears to be simple infatuation reveals itself as something much deeper, a strong connection that makes both people more than they were initially. By the time the film ended, I was completely in love with the two of them. The film resists compromising this emotional core, giving you hope in the face of all of the obstacles present in this story. Yes, this tale is based on real events, but let’s be honest; you thought Bechuanaland was some made-up name. You’ve got no idea where this story is going. Some of the developments are infuriating; others inspirational or heartwarming; at least one was so shocking the entire theater gasped aloud!

The romance at the center is sweet, there’s political intrigue that I found very compelling and the conclusion is strong. The performances are convincing (though some of the extras left a bit to be desired) It also did what I think is the great mark of any historical film: it makes you want to go into a time machine so you can meet the subjects involved, congratulate them, or, in certain cases, punch them in the face. It puts you in the shoes of Ruth and Seretse. The beginning of “A United Kingdom” may be rocky, but once it gets going, it’ll take you through a myriad of emotions. (Theatrical version on the big screen, March 18, 2017)