'Amazing Grace'
(Nicholas Farrell, Albert Finney, et al / DVD / PG / (2006) 2007 / 20th Century Fox)
Overview: From the makers of Ray, AMAZING GRACE tells the inspiring story of William Wilberforce and his passion and perseverance to pass a law ending the slave trade in the late 18th century. Several friends, including Wilberforce's minister, a reformed slave ship captain who penned the beloved hymn Amazing Grace, urge him to see the cause through.
DVD Verdict: I actually went to see 'Amazing Grace' with the teens of my church as a chaperon. I did not really know what to expect with the exception that I was told it was about the abolition of slavery in England. What a great story for all to learn that it was the Anglos in England who were amongst the first to abolish slavery. It is not a story we hear much about. Wilberforce got religion as they say. His mentor, John Newton, who wrote the hymn 'Amazing Grace,' taught him about what slavery was. In the theatrical version of the story, Wilberforce wanted to go into the ministry. Newton suggests to him his calling is to free the slaves, to make that his life's work.
Oh that we had such passion for the things of this life today. I liked it becaused it showed about the potential in man to accomplish great things if he has a heart. I am a believer in God, yet, not a religionist. Religion, sometimes, causes more difficulty because it is so much like men and not like the God that it is attached to. Wilberforce lived his religion. Who knows though, maybe he was an enlightened soul, who really was against the crown, or maybe he really saw the commonalities between himself and the Jacobites in France. He was able to hold forth in his battle in the Parliament.
It is a story like no other in recent times. I hope that more come to see it, that it gets its time in the media. We never really heard much about it. It is a story for everyone. Historical, with a strong ethic for the love of mankind. Wilberforce and his story will inspire people to stand for what they believe. In the times we live in today, it is rare for people to stand up for what is right. Wilberforce is an example of almost unwavering commitment to a cause. The world was better for his efforts, I think you will be better for seeing, 'Amazing Grace.' This is a Widescreen Presentation (1.85:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs and comes with the Special Features of:
Audio commentary with Director Michael Apted and Ioan Gruffudd
How Sweet the Sound: The Story of Amazing Grace - this half-hour documentary provides an in-depth look at the making of the film and the story’s relevance to today
Finding Freedom featurette - A tour of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center providing factual information about modern-day slavery practices
Interactive Discussion Tools and Study Guides - The discussion guides provide thought-provoking questions that can be printed out for use in classrooms or bible study groups
Music video of Grammy Nominee Chris Tomlin’s version of “Amazing Grace”
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