Starring: Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon
Director: Clint Eastwood (Million Dollar Baby, Mystic River)
Running Time: 2 hr 14 min
Release Date: Dec. 11, 2009
Budget: $60 million
Critics’ Thumbs Up: 76%
“…a fascinating study of political leadership.” A.O. Scott, New York Times
“…pedestrian…” Rene Rodriguez, Miami Herald
Fear not non-sports fans: this engrossing, complex drama is more about politics and history than it is about rugby. Actually this was the case for Nelson Mandela as well. Realizing the South African rugby team symbolized apartheid, newly elected Mandela (Freeman) rallied behind the team led by Damon’s captain in order to unite his people and to stop the cycle of fear and prejudice. While Damon gives a solid performance, Mandela is the focal point and Freeman gives a nuanced but robust depiction. Though a bit long and wrapped up too hastily, Invictus, which is Latin for “unconquered,” excels at dissecting racial tensions and revealing Mandela as a person – not just a political figure.
