August 23, 2006 @ 4:54 pm

Review of Mandela

Felicia Pride

Recently, the former president of South Africa celebrated his eighty-eighth birthday. In celebration, Palm Pictures, founded by Chris Blackwell (producer and friend of Bob Marley) released a box set that includes the documentary Mandela: Son of Africa, Father of a Nation. left The film, nominated for an Oscar in 1997, follows Mandela’s life from a young boy in his village to his rise to presidency in 1994. But it’s most successful in capturing a humanized portrait of a man who was prepared to die for his convictions, spent twenty-seven years in prison defending them, and worked towards implementing them as the first black president of South Africa. Mandela narrates a majority of the documentary conjuring up personal memories of when a white teacher gave him the name Nelson although his mother was unable to pronounce it correctly. He remembers his father’s abrupt death, and his personal entry into manhood at age sixteen during his tribal circumcision ceremony. To avoid an arranged marriage he recalls fleeing to Johannesburg against his chief’s orders. He discusses how his pivotal membership in the African National Congress during his early twenties sparked his political interests and his law career. Throughout the film, Mandela is described as loyal, dignified, and presidential. But it’s really his fortitude, especially during his imprisonment, that distinguishes him. There’s a stirring scene where his daughter reads a letter from him announcing to a crowd of supporters that he will not denounce the African National Congress in exchange for an early release from prison. This was not his only refusal to abandon his convictions in exchange for his freedom. The movie is filled with powerful footage, including uncensored violence that erupted in the streets during the country’s political turmoil. There’s also scenes from “Voting Day” in 1994 when citizens of all races where able to select their president. One older black woman commented that she never remembered having the opportunity to vote in her lifetime. History is captured on film when Mandela proudly casts his ballot for the race that he subsequently wins. The box set also includes a 48-page book of photos and the movie’s original soundtrack which features traditional Zullu ans Xhosa folk songs from musicians such as Hugh Masakela, Vusi Mahlasela, the ANC Choir, the Specials, and the Manhattan Brothers. Mandela is a moving testament to a man who deserves to live the rest of his days in peace for the violence, strife, and division that he spent a lifetime fighting against. Read more vibe.com reviews.

Article tags: Nelson Mandela, Palm Pictures, Review 

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