A United Kingdom

Parental Rating: PG-13

Contains: Language    Adult Content    

Jill's Review

Opens February 24, 2017

Runs 111 minutes

This movie is based on the real life relationship between Seretse Khama (David Oyelowo), the soon to be ruler of the Bangwatho in Bechuanaland and Ruth Williams (Rosamund Pike), a white British woman. In the 1940's, Seretse is studying law in Britain when he meets Ruth at a missionary dance. Soon, they are seeing each other regularly. Of course, an interracial relationship like theirs was frowned upon in Britain, but they persevered. Ruth is surprised when Seretse reveals that he is in line to rule his people in Africa but agrees to marry him anyway. Things are not so simple once they return to his homeland. His uncle is firmly against the marriage and his countrymen do not accept a "white" woman as the wife to their ruler. Additionally, Britain is against the relationship because of pressure from South Africa. They are mistreated and eventually exiled. But, Seretse has only the best interests of his country at heart and works to free Bechuanaland from British rule. He eventually becomes the first president of what is now Botswana.

This is a fascinating true story. The love between these two must have been very strong to withstand everything they put up with to be together and eventually rule his homeland. It is worth seeing this movie just from the historical perspective. The acting is fine. Everyone does a good job. This was another story that I had never heard. I like historical films and I thought this was a good one. Not great, but interesting and worth seeing.

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