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.
