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Amistad

R 1997 Drama, History, Mystery · 2h 35m
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In 1839, the slave ship Amistad set sail from Cuba to America. During the long trip, Cinque leads the slaves in an unprecedented uprising. They are then held prisoner in Connecticut, and their release becomes the subject of heated debate. Freed slave Theodore Joadson wants Cinque and the others exonerated and recruits property lawyer Roger Baldwin to help his case. Eventually, John Quincy Adams also becomes an ally.

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About Amistad

In 1839, the slave ship Amistad sets sail, carrying a cargo of enslaved Africans from Cuba. Led by Cinque, the captives stage a revolt against their captors. Their desperate fight for freedom leads them to American shores, where they are imprisoned in Connecticut. The legal battle for their liberation ignites a passionate debate, dividing the nation. Theodore Joadson, a former slave and abolitionist, seeks justice for Cinque and his fellow Africans. He enlists the aid of Roger Baldwin, a property lawyer initially reluctant but soon deeply invested in the case. As the legal proceedings escalate, the case attracts the attention of John Quincy Adams, a former president who emerges as a powerful advocate for the Africans' freedom, adding his legal expertise and moral authority to the fight against slavery.

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Cast and Characters

Directed by Steven Spielberg, Amistad features a stellar cast. Djimon Hounsou delivers a powerful performance as Cinque, the leader of the slave revolt. Morgan Freeman portrays Theodore Joadson, a freed slave who champions the Africans' cause. Anthony Hopkins embodies John Quincy Adams, the former president who defends the Africans in court. Matthew McConaughey plays Roger Baldwin, the lawyer who initially handles the property case and later becomes a key advocate. Nigel Hawthorne stars as President Martin Van Buren, whose political calculations influence the outcome of the trial. David Paymer appears as Secretary of State John Forsyth, involved in the political machinations surrounding the case.

What people like about Amistad

Critics praised Amistad for its powerful performances, particularly Djimon Hounsou's portrayal of Cinque. Many highlighted Spielberg's direction and the film's unflinching depiction of the horrors of slavery. The film's historical accuracy and its exploration of themes of justice and freedom were also widely lauded. Viewers have consistently praised the film's emotional impact and its ability to provoke thought and discussion about a significant period in history.

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Movie Score

70%

Released

December 10, 1997

Director

Steven Spielberg

Cast

Morgan Freeman, Nigel Hawthorne, Anthony Hopkins, Djimon Hounsou, Matthew McConaughey, David Paymer

Genre

Drama, History, Mystery

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