Moviola > Films > Invictus

Invictus (12A)   133 mins

"His people needed a leader.  He gave them a champion."

Director:  Clint Eastwood

Screenplay:  Anthony Peckham from John Harlin's book

Cinematography:  Tom Stern

Original music:  Kyle Eastwood, Michael Stevens

From director Clint Eastwood, Invictus tells the inspiring true story of how Nelson Mandela (Morgan Freeman) joined forces with the captain of South Africa’s rugby team, François Pienaar (Matt Damon), to help unite their country.
Newly elected President Mandela knows his nation remains racially and economically divided in the wake of apartheid. Believing he can bring his people together through the universal language of sport, Mandela rallies South Africa’s underdog rugby team as they make an unlikely bid for the 1995 World Cup Championship.

Oscar nominations: Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role, Morgan Freeman; Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role, Matt Damon.

"Freeman, boasting an apparently flawless accent, has never been better. And Matt Damon, his hair dyed blond, his frame beefed up for the part of François Pienaar, is also compelling as the dedicated team captain who apparently hasn't given Mandela's predicament much thought before but who develops a personal rapport with the man."  The Independent

“Don't know about you, but when I'm verging on 80 the ability to string together a sentence and tell my grandchildren apart will be enough. You can bet I won't be directing one of 2053's best movies.  Yet, continuing a startling renaissance, 79-year-old Clint Eastwood delivers yet another tub-thumping classic - a sports drama that'll have all but the most cynical cheering from their seats. Aside from leaving the cinema with a huge grin on your face, chances are you'll be marvelling at how Dirty Harry is still churning out films of such high quality. The Changeling, Gran Torino and now this. It's scarcely believable.”  David Edwards Daily Mirror

"A movie that hits you squarely with its visceral impact and stays in your mind for a long time after."  New York Times

For more information, and to see a trailer and stills, visit the official website at  www.invictusmovie.warnerbros.com

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Last modified: 01-Sep-2010

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