Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom

The film, Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, provides an overview of the life of Nelson Mandela. It was generally well-liked by the SLR group and the average rating was 8 out of 10. Everyone agreed the acting was excellent; however, the film tries to cover a lot of territory, and understandably, there are areas of Nelson Mandela’s life which are not fully explored. Several people said the previous CBC documentary on Nelson Mandela was a more satisfying exploration of his life. Another person said, “If a film does not take me through a full range of emotions, then I cannot consider it a great film”. Personally, I gave the film 8.5 – 9 out of 10. If a film allows me to experience a "suspension of disbelief " (to become fully immersed in the action), and it also communicates a liberating, spiritual message, then I give it high marks.

The film summarizes and depicts many personal and political highlights of Nelson Mandela’s life. Of special interest to me was the “falling out” which occurred between Nelson Mandela and his wife, Winnie Mandela. I was aware of the political discord between them, but was unclear about how their political approach differed. The film shows how Winnie Mandela maintained the momentum of the revolution while her husband was incarcerated. It shows how her approach differed from that of her husband. Winnie admits, early in the film, that anger and hatred are her motivation. Nelson Mandela, on the other hand, does not allow his anger or his desire for revenge to motivate his actions. He wants political freedom for black Africans and this is his focus. While Winnie wants a “war,” Nelson ultimately seeks “peace”.

The name of the film, Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, references more than just political freedom. The film portrays how a difficult and oppressive life can have an impact on one’s personal development. Nelson Mandela becomes a more effective and liberated leader, because he achieves personal freedom. He becomes a leader akin to Gandhi – one who has moved beyond the pettiness of his own personal life, and one who goes forward to seek liberation for all.

Philomena

Friends of the Hyland -Philomena:

The film viewed on January 12 was Philomena. Nineteen members met at the Wortley Roadhouse afterwards for refreshments and lively discussion. There were two tables. One gave it about 4 out of 5 and the other gave it about 8 out of 10. About the same and all agreeing that it was a film not to be missed.

 It is based on a true story of Philomema Lee (Judi Dench) who, at the age of 14, gave birth to a baby boy and was forced by the Catholic authorities to give him up for adoption. She has spent 50 years trying to find him. Martin Sixsmith (Steve Coogan), a cynical journalist, helps her. The search takes them to North America and back. Martin Sixsmith wrote the book on which the film is based, in 2009.

The film is about the relationship that develops between these two as the story is gradually revealed. It brings laughter and tears to the audience. Philomena, the simple, Irish-Catholic woman, reveals depths of understanding and humour. Her training as a nurse gives her practical knowledge of the world that startles people who think her old and out of touch. The journalist Martin Sixmith, by contrast, is highly educated, cosmopolitan and feeling depressed, but is determined to solve the mystery of her son's whereabouts. The commonsense, warmth and compassion displayed by Philomena contrast sharply with the reserve and occasional rudeness displayed by Martin.   Her capacity to forgive is inspiring. We agreed that Judi Dench played her flawlessly and predicted an Academy Award nomination.

For some, the story brought back memories of education by the nuns and the harsh discipline sometimes imposed.  Others remembered the huge stigma attached to unwed pregnant girls, and friends who had dropped out of sight after becoming pregnant.  Everyone agreed that the inspiring cinematography enhanced the story being told.  It was a moving film - even for those seeing it for the second time.

                                            Anne Hutchinson, Ros Moorhead

There was a great turn-out for Philomena and I was sorry to have missed it. The following dates are when the SLR Friends of the Hyland will meet in coming months.

Febrary 9
March 9
April 13
May 4 (to avoid Mother's Day)

Thank you.
Hope to see you there!!
Joanne.