A United Kingdom Review, Fifty Shades Darker Review — One is the Best Film of the Year So Far
A United Kingdom Review — The year is young, but this is by far the best so far
A United Kingdom is a little bit like Hidden Figures in that you come away wondering “How could I have not heard this story before? I can’t believe it’s not being told until now!” It’s based on the true story of a prince from Botswana, who falls in love with a British office worker while he’s studying law in London. When he’s called back to Africa to take his place on the throne, he takes his true love with him as is wife and queen.
That’s when all hell breaks loose. It seems everyone, from the British government to the native population of Botswana, is against the marriage. Even neighboring South Africa is violently opposed, because they have just begun instigating apartheid. In the end, it is a devastating condemnation of British colonialism, and a testament to the young ruler’s brilliance, determination and love.
David Oyelowo plays the King, and Rosamund Pike is his bride. The two are amazing together. Frankly, they’re amazing apart in almost everything they try, but it’s hard to imagine anyone else in these roles. The cinematography is lovely, and if the script is a little straight forward and linear, I believe that’s essential so that people unfamiliar with the situation can follow along. Amma Assante, who also directed the intoxicating Belle, kept a tight reign on the production and it’s all the better for it.
Rated PG-13
1 Hour 51 Minutes
Fifty Shades Darker Review — I’ve been calling it Fifty Shades Dumber, but it’s not a complete flop
Look, you know going into this that it’s going to be bad. How could it be anything but when the source material is so gawdawful? I still think, though, it could be an indecent lark for a girl’s night out, if many martinis are consumed prior.
It’s good for a giggle if you can overlook the fact that while Dakota Johnson‘s perfect body is on display throughout, we seldom see any more than Jamie Dornan‘s biceps and pecs until the end. C’mon — is Christian Grey really going to make love with his pants on most of the time?
If only that were the film’s worst flaw. There are far too many to mention, but the film ends up being so bad it’s fun to watch. The audience reaction alone is worth the price of admission. I didn’t hate it.
Rated R
1 Hour 55 Minutes
A United Kingdom Review, Fifty Shades Darker Review — One is the Best Film of the Year So Far
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