By Jenna

Morgan Freeman as Nelson Mandela

I do have to say, even though I was around during the time the events in Invictus happened, I was off in my own world with my head in the clouds. Going into this movie, I’ll be honest; I thought it had something to do with soccer, which I was WRONG, it’s rugby.  I had some knowledge of Nelson Mandela’s story but more knowledge of Matt Damon for sure. Lucky for me, I got to see the advanced screening of the heartfelt movie Invictus, and definitely got a better understanding of rugby and what Nelson Mandela did for his country.

Invictus, based on the book Playing the Enemy, by John Carlin and directed by Clint Eastwood tells the inspiring story of how newly elected President Nelson Mandela (Morgan Freeman) comes together with the captain of South Africa’s rugby team, Francois Pienaar (Matt Damon), to help bring unity to the country. The nation of South Africa remained racially and economically divided in the wake of apartheid at the time Nelson Mandela came into presidency. Believing he can bring the nation together, through sports, he rallies South Africa’s underdog ruby team and make a run to the 1995 World Cup Championship match.

Matt Damon as Francois Pienaar

At first it’s a little odd to hear Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon speak in a South African accent, but you get used to it and it’s actually really good and believable. When very well known actors can pull off accents it’s a huge plus. The entire movie is very moving especially the scene where they visit Nelson Mandela’s jail cell. The action of the rugby games are exciting and intense (Not to mention you get lots of hot men shirtless time). You’ll find yourself rooting for the underdog in this one and from A to Z, this movie is witty and truly inspirational. As an LA local, it’s hard to imagine any other places in the world and the country of South Africa is surreal but at the same time enchanting. (I’ve found myself trying to make plans to get to the world cup this next year) This movie is really a must see and the best part is, it’s perfect to bring family or friends.  There’s more to it than just rugby, it gives us some insight on the life and challenges Nelson Mandela had to go through during that critical time. He’s a hero and role model to people all around the world and Invictus gives even more of a reason to adore him. Be prepared though, when you leave the movie, you’ll be searching for more and inspired to take on any challenge. This is a heart-warming, feel good flick.

Jenna is a social media marketing maven and frequently covers events in Hollywood.

Tags: Movies

This entry was posted on Thursday, December 10th, 2009 at 5:23 pm and is filed under art&music. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.