'Invictus' (2009)

Title: Invictus

Rating: 12A

Released: 2009

Director: Clint Eastwood

Starring: Morgan Freeman, Matt Damon

Our Verdict: *** 3 Stars

In a line: Heartwarming and inspirational tale of the underdog overcoming adversity for all

Background:

'Invictus' is based on the 2008 book 'Playing the Enemy: Nelson Mandela and the Game That Changed a Nation' by the English journalist and author, John Carlin. The film's title is a reference to the poem 'Invictus' by William Ernest Henley, which was a favourite of Nelson Mandela during his time incarcerated on Robben Island. The film rights were sold by author Carlin to Morgan Freeman, who went on to portray South African President Nelson Mandela in the film. Both Freeman and co-star Matt Damon (who played South African rugby captain, François Pienaar) have been nominated for an Academy Award for their performance. In addition to the two Oscar nods, the film has been honoured with nominations at a variety of award ceremonies.

The film follows the real-life events surrounding the 1995 Rugby World Cup, particularly focusing on Mandela and Pienaar.

Synopsis: The film opens on one of the most important days in South African history; February 11th 1990, the day Nelson Mandela (portrayed by Morgan Freeman) was released from prison on Robben Island. Racial conflict is shown from the first minute of the film and as a viewer, one feels uneasy seeing the affluent, white rugby players as they train across the street from the black footballers, playing on the edge of one of Cape Town's slums (established following the Apartheid). The action moves forward to 1994, when Mandela is elected as President of South Africa. At this point he realises that whilst white South Africans cheer for the national rugby team (the Springboks), those in the black minority who follow the sport (note: most black South Africans favoured football over rugby) cheer for anyone who is pitted against them. Mandela himself seriously opposed the Springboks during his time in prison. He realises that through sport he may be able to unite the divided country he has been given the task of presiding over. Through collaboration with the Springbok's captain, François Pienaar (played by Matt Damon), Mandela is able to reinvigorate the public support for the rugby team in time for the 1995 Rugby World Cup. We see the Springbok's journey from an underprepared and failing team, to the winners of the World Cup.

Review: Most people I've discussed this film with have had the same preconception; you must need to be a rugby fan to appreciate it. Surprisingly, that really isn't the case. The film is a fantastic tale of the triumph of the underdog (as South Africa defeated the 2:1 favourites, New Zealand to win the Rugby World Cup), and any film about Mandela is bound to be inspirational; which 'Invictus' certainly is. It's also a good account of the recent history of South Africa, and the start of the process to unite the country following years of racial segregation. I was disappointed to be the only woman in the screening, whilst it may not be a chick-flick, there really isn't anything in the film that should put women off.

The film oozes the feel-good-factor, particularly when Matt Damon and his rugby player cohorts take part in a PR campaign that involves teaching rugby to underprivileged black children. Another noteworthy scene has to be the meeting between Mandela and Pienaar (over afternoon tea) in which Mandela infers that he wants the Springboks to win the 1995 Rugby World Cup, despite an ongoing period of under-performance.

My main gripe with the film (oddly enough) is the distinct lack of rugby in it. Female friends refused to see the film with me because it's being marketed as a film about sport, but the number of scenes actually showing footage of rugby games is very minimal. There isn't even a great deal of talk about sport. It's closer to being a Mandela biopic than a film about the South African rugby team. The rugby is merely a device used by Mandela to bring unification. As such, women or those less fond of sport shouldn't be put off seeing this film. Those interested in history, politics and current affairs are likely to find something in the film that they enjoy, and there's even a sprinkling of amusing one-liners to keep everyone entertained.

Unfortunately, the weakest point of the film was any action shots featured. Scenes depicting rugby matches were unsteady, as if attempting to capture the frantic nature of a match, but failing miserably and instead giving a confused and slightly motion-sick feeling. Eastwood knows how to set up an emotional and dramatically tense scene, but falls short when it comes to anything fast-paced.

Kudos has to go to director Clint Eastwood's son Kyle, who provided the music for the film. The score featured a rousing collection of songs with both English and African influences and vocal work that complimented the piece perfectly.

Morgan's performance as Mandela is nothing short of amazing. I even did a double-take when old news footage used at the beginning of the film was mixed with footage of Morgan; he really did look that much like the South African leader. But his portrayal is excellent for more than just a physical resemblance. His mannerisms are spot on, and everything down to the most intricate detail is really perfect. I sincerely hope that Morgan receives the 'Best Actor' Academy Award. Damon is also very impressive in his role as the South African rugby team captain. It is, however, difficult to escape the fact that Damon stands at 5'10", very much below the height of not only Pienaar but the entire Springbok team. Aside from this, his performance is excellent and his scenes with Freeman are particularly joyful to watch.

Overall, the film was an entertaining and thought-provoking piece, with a potentially dry plotline carried along by excellent acting. Fans of biopics will be especially enamoured with the film, whilst sport fans may be left wanting more. I think it deserves it's 3 star rating on the strength of the performances given by Freeman and Damon, but I would like to have seen more rugby scenes, and certainly better executed than those featured. Worth watching but not the rugby-lovers dream I was led to believe.

'It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll,
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.'

'Invictus' - William Ernest Henley