The Butler

2013; a year in which I was not too impressed with film production until, “The Butler” came along and captivated my heart and soul. The story line was unique, regardless of fictional or non-fictional pieces. An excellent movie for all ages across the lifespan, educating us with historical periods in time but more importantly revealing that ever present racism that still breaks humanity all over the world. I was glued to the set, never bored, sometimes sad, intrigued while engrossed into the characters which were so outstandingly portrayed. The newsreels, plot, sub-plots, characterizations and the story that spanned so many years was by far, not an easy task. Forest Whittaker’s inner dialogue demonstrating his own point of view, brought us closer and closer into his heart and thoughts. The beginning started with a moment that was different; a good hook into the broad time span of the movie that was about to follow, all starting from birth. The structure of transitions, flashbacks and present day hooked us into inner portraits of our characters, especially the main ones. The settings helped enormously to characterize and create mood; providing an atmosphere which always seemed authentic, heartfelt and at times, disturbing. - Oprah’s best role yet and Whitaker is sure to take home Oscar. It was a powerful film and for me the best movie of the year. Backed by a beautiful score and soundtrack," The Butler" has seen it all, spanning eight presidents; not an easy task, by any means but masterfully done. I cried for the horrific persecution of a minority, simply because they were different. Look around the world; it’s everywhere but I think that the ending leaves us with some hope for the future. We must all be freedom riders!