MOVIE | The fate of a "free Black man" who lived 12 years as a slave in "12 Years a Slave"
MOVIE | A Shocking True Story of a Free Black Man Enslaved for 12 Years
Steve McQueen's Human Drama, "12 Years a Slave"
Set in America during the era of slavery, "12 Years a Slave" is director Steve McQueen's cinematic adaptation of the true story of a free black man who was kidnapped and forced into slavery for 12 years. The film, which won the Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture – Drama, a precursor to the Academy Awards, is a highly anticipated release. It opens in theaters nationwide on Friday, March 7, starting at TOHO Cinemas Miyukiza.
Text by YANAKA Tomomi
Brad Pitt Also Participates as Producer
Since his 2008 feature debut "Hunger," Steve McQueen has consistently delivered impactful films that delve into the truth. His eagerly awaited third film, "12 Years a Slave," does not disappoint, presenting a story of shock and profound emotion.
Steve McQueen is also renowned as an artist, having received the prestigious Turner Prize in the UK as a sculptor and photographer. In "Hunger," he depicted the agonizing months leading to the death of an activist on a hunger strike in prison. His second film,"SHAME"(2011), explored the theme of a man with sex addiction, boldly dissecting 'addiction' and 'darkness' in his previous works.
Michael Fassbender
Benedict Cumberbatch
Lupita Nyong'o
For his third film, McQueen chose the memoir of Solomon Northup, an African American whose autobiography became a bestseller when published in 1853. Brad Pitt, who had long wished to collaborate with McQueen, joined as a producer. Pitt also appears on screen in a key role as a Canadian laborer advocating for the abolition of slavery.
Chiwetel Ejiofor delivers a powerful performance as the protagonist, Solomon, masterfully conveying his nobility, integrity, and humility. The film also features a cast of currently sought-after actors, including Benedict Cumberbatch, Paul Dano, and Michael Fassbender, all of whom were eager to work with McQueen. The presence of model Lupita Nyong'o, cast as the enslaved woman Patsey, is also a notable highlight.
What Awaited Him After Being Deceived and Sold into Slavery?
Solomon Northup, a violinist, lived a happy life with his family in New York State as a "free black man," recognized by his certificate of freedom.
Brad Pitt
One day, Solomon accepts an offer to perform in Washington D.C. for a few weeks. After fulfilling his two-week contract, he celebrates with the promoter and drinks perhaps a bit too much. The next morning, he awakens to find his hands and feet bound by heavy chains, realizing he has been deceived by the promoter and sold into slavery.
Sold to New Orleans, Solomon endures the relentless discrimination and violence of white slaveholders, yet never loses his dignity. Then, after 12 years have passed, Solomon encounters Bass, a Canadian laborer who advocates for the abolition of slavery,—.
Steve McQueen, hailed as a "fearless filmmaker" for his consistently provocative work, presents "12 Years a Slave" with a stellar cast. We must not turn away from the "truth" revealed through the profound shock and emotion this film evokes.
"12 Years a Slave"
Opens Friday, March 7, at TOHO Cinemas Miyukiza and other theaters nationwide.
Director: Steve McQueen
Starring: Chiwetel Ejiofor, Michael Fassbender, Benedict Cumberbatch, Paul Dano, Garrett Dillahunt
Distributor: Gaga
2013 / USA, UK / 134 min / PG12
http://yo-akeru.gaga.ne.jp
© 2013 Bass Films, LLC and Monarchy Enterprises S.a.r.l. in the rest of the World. All Rights Reserved.