Amistad

Amistad takes sail with a stunning image: a close-up of bloody fingers attempting to extricate a nail from rotting wood. During a stormy night, this overwhelming picture transforms into a revolt of viciously violent slaves (it is a well-known knowledge that revolts and dinosaur attacks only occur during poor weather). This moment exemplifies Spielberg's ability to create mystical, unforgettable visuals.

When white folks and lengthy speeches take control, Amistad becomes a tedious courtroom drama. Although the film attempts to adopt an anti-slavery perspective, it lacks condensed concentration. Its sole epic quality lies in its length and the intricate plot, though the presence of political personalities (Nigel Hawthorne played Martin Van Buren, the current US President back then) is still not sufficient to qualify it as a serious political picture.

As a courtroom drama, Amistad has given many intriguing insights into legal or ethical issues. Spielberg has attempted to fill in the melodramatic hole with bits of global political intrigue and intimate conversations between the attorneys and Cinque - the flamboyant leader of the slaves.

Year of Release: 1997

Stars: Morgan Freeman, Anthony Hopkin.

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 77%