Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom

By any account, Nelson Mandela is one of the most complex, fascinating and inspirational figures of the 20th century. Yet the well-intentioned biopic Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom somehow feels like a missed opportunity.

That’s no fault of actor Idris Elba, who captures the essence of the former South African president and civil rights crusader with a portrayal that transcends mere mimicry of his speech and mannerisms.

However, the film as a whole hits the highlights but too often fails to delve beneath the surface of Mandela or the ideals for which he fought his entire life.

The story opens in 1942, with Mandela as a successful lawyer from a small village who turns into a budding young activist with the African National Congress, where he becomes a prominent speaker against South Africa’s racist Apartheid policies.

Behind the scenes, Mandela is a womanizer who leaves his family to start a relationship with Winnie (Naomie Harris), who becomes his longtime wife and a prominent activist herself. Later, Mandela and his colleagues are arrested for conspiring against the government, which leads to a 28-year prison sentence that tests Mandela’s resolve while rallying his supporters for his cause.

The film gains more traction in the second half, when it focuses on his lengthy imprisonment and subsequent rise to political power. It becomes an intriguing examination of his influence and his persuasive and uncompromising views on non-violent protests.

The screenplay by William Nicholson (Gladiator) was adapted from Mandela’s autobiography, and attempting to cover more than 50 years of his life is a tall task for any filmmaker.

Nicholson emphasizes Mandela’s oratory skills with a handful of rousing speeches, including one in a crowded theater and another during his trial. Yet amid its modest insight into the life of its subject, there won’t be many surprises for most folks despite the best efforts of Elba (Prometheus).

The result, under the slick and stylish direction of Justin Chadwick (The First Grader) is powerful more in spurts than as a whole. For example, the image of Mandela raising his fist to supporters during his release from prison speaks more than words ever could.

Long Walk to Freedom is an ambitious tribute that serves as a solid introduction to a man whose heroism still resonates worldwide, but it ultimately feels too simplified and sanitized, which is something its subject certainly was not.

Rated PG-13, 141 minutes.