Morgan Freeman, Matt Damon and Clint Eastwood. The names are enough for a great rating, but somehow it all doesn't come together as easily as I expected. Morgan Freeman gives one of the best performances of his life. Even though he physically doesn't resemble Mandela much, the spirit was there. Matt Damon didn't have much to do but look inspired or look dejected. The rest of the cast also does a good job especially Tony Kgoroge who acts as the head of Mandela's personal security. But somehow the wow! factor is missing. It seems Clintwood sleepwalked through this movie. Everything is in place but the magic is missing.
It is the year Mandela is elected as the President of South Africa, apartheid has been abolished but the wounds still run deep. The economy is not in a good condition, nor is the country. While he should have concentrated on more worthy "presidential" duties, Mandela chooses to encourage the Springbrooks - South Africa's much hated symbol of the apartheid, an Afrikaaner rugby team with just one whitewashed african to win the Rugby World Cup for the new South Africa. Glimpses of how Mandela works, his sad family life at that point and the loyalty he inspired are very well portrayed. The Springbrooks led by Matt Damon are at first resistant but soon fall in line with Mandela's "Human calculation"
If you want to watch a feel good movie that is based on an inspiring true life story, this is for you. But forget about any Clintwood magic in this one.
6/10
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