Synopsis:
Freedom is a film released in 2014 directed by Peter Cousens. The movie adopts an unusual dual narrative approach that spans over two centuries. Both stories capture the essence of humanity’s perpetual chase of freedom. One story is set in the 19th century and depicts the life of an escaping slave while the other is set in the 18th century and showcases a remorseful slave trader. The film offers insights on the themes of bondage, spiritual awakening, and redemption.
Primary storyline starts in the year 1856 with Samuel Woodward (Cuba Gooding Jr), a slave endlessly working on a virginia plantation. With the constant danger of his son being sold off inevitably looming, Samuel comes to that dreaded point of decision where hoping to save his family, he resolves to escape north with them using the underground railroad. Their perilous journey teeters between moments of unadulterated suspense and fleeting hope, however they are always relentlessly pursued by Pamplin (William Sadler), a cruel bounty hunter.
The family is aided by abolitionists such as Quakers and those affiliated with the Underground Railroad. Samuel, for a reason that goes beyond the sheer cruelty of the world with its complete lack of faith, self-doubt, and justice struggles with unrelenting inner rage while distrusting white people; now begins to question everything that is around him. Every single human journey is spiritual in some sense, and Samuel not only confronts the uncertainty that looms around his future but also comes to terms with the bitterness of his past.
With this story is the John Newton’s tale (portrayed by Bernhard Forcher), a British slave ship captain from 1748 who operated over a century earlier. Newton is shown without compassion for any form of empathy transporting slaves across the Atlantic, including Samuel’s ancestor. His sorrowful state makes him desert anything resembling love and compassion, as he permits his crew to conduct the most appalling acts imaginable. Only after sinking ships at sea does grace shed light upon him to encourage change, allowing him to heal from a life-threatening storm. As a result, this shifts transform his sailing career alongside the wife he so desperately tried getting rid of, culminating with the writing “Amazing Grace”.
By illustrating the ripple effects of the film’s portrayal of Newton’s awakening spanning across generations, each inspiring the other, it is suggested that moral courage, albeit slow in progress, can result in sustained change.
Cast & Characters:
Cuba Gooding Jr. as Samuel Woodward: A complex character who encapsulates not only the anger and rage but also the survival instincts of a man fighting to preserve his self-respect and dignity. Gooding deepens Samuel’s character remarkably by portraying his strength while also exposing his vulnerability.
Sharon Leal as Vanessa Woodward: Leal depicts with poise indignation and a form of stoic defiance as Samuel’s wife who throughout the film serves as a cornerstone of hope and emotional strength. Vanessa’s character brings out the best and the worst in Samuel.
William Sadler as Plimpton: Sadler chilling portrayal depicts with unforgiving realism the relentless slave catcher pursuing the family. The depiction of their characters herald them as the cruel cogs of the slave system. Sadler embodies these notions perfectly.
Bernhard Forcher as John Newton: Forcher captures the essence of the film quite beautifully as his character jumps from being a brutal slave trader to an awakened humane individual. Transformation through faith and guilt is slow and Forcher portrays that transition superbly.
Michael Goodwin as Thomas Garrett: Goodwin encompasses the gentle and morally sound presence in the film as he plays the character of a historical abolitionist aiding the Woodward family. Compassion and moral responsibility are deeply emphasized figures in the film.
Byron Utley as the character of Frederick Douglass: Even in the brevity of his presence, Douglass serves as a powerful emblem of the abolitionist movement guiding the intellectuals and resisting the oppression of African Americans.
Jubilant Sykes as Ozias: A friend with remarkable eloquence who inspires and aids the family to rise through spirituals and faith.
Themes and Symbolism:
The focal point of the film is captured in the title, Freedom, which takes into account the multifaceted aspects of the heroes’ journeys and the struggle for emancipation; every protagonist seeks release from the bondage chains, not only from slavery, but from the internal confines of one’s own spirit.
In Samuel’s narrative, we view the literal struggle for freedom: enslavement, oppression, and fear. His narrative depicts the shocking experiences of slavery while also honoring the indomitable spirit of Black families and communities, the courage of the abolitionists, and the warm strength born of deep religious faith. There is also a forgiving side to his arc. It is about trying to let go of the need to hate and still seek justice.
John Newton’s account demonstrates the struggle for self moral freedom. He was a man chained by his own evil actions, either too blind or too cowardly to see the pain that he causes until he is faced with his spirit. This slow painful process is sincere. The redemption he sought fuels the change the film attempts to portray even the most complacent, flawed, and resistant people are capable of change.
Throughout the narrative, faith and music play a pivotal role as ports that connect the two periods. Spiritual songs and gospel boasted the songs, “Amazing Grace,” serves as a vehicle that emphasizes change. Furthermore, it allows for the consolidation of change across multiple generations. The film portrays music as a powerful tool for remembrance, resistance, and restoration.
These injustices weaken hope for the next generations, but the display of courage is a way to inspire for future eyes. This idea of continuity can be found in other eras of human history and is further emphasized through the dual structure of the film.
Cinematography and Direction:
Woodward’s journey is portrayed against a backdrop of harsh slavery juxtaposed with the natural beauty of the landscapes. Dean Cundey’s cinematography is nothing less than extraordinary. The use of light within the film is also symbolic, as certain scenes portrayed during moments of faith and connection are steeped in warm light, while scenes of threat or inner struggles are shrouded in harsh shadows.
Peter Cousens, the director, approaches the material in a careful and sincere manner. Unlike many other films, this one largely avoids gratuitous violence, focusing instead on the emotional and spiritual consequences of slavery. Some may consider the pacing too slow or the structure too fragmented, but those engaging deeply with the film will find a genuine story that is poignant and often touching.
Reception and Legacy:
The film did not receive critical acclaim, with most critics claiming Freedom received mediocre to lackluster feedback. Although the film is well-known for its powerful and heartfelt message, numerous critics felt the intertwining of dual timelines was wasteful and often thought the film turned towards melodrama. Despite this, people wanting to indulge in a faith-based historical drama appreciated the film for its uplifting message and musical elements.
Cuba Gooding Jr.’s portrayal garnered praise for his ability to fuse anger, pressure, and profound loss into a character desperately attempting to safeguard his family. Reviewers remarked on the exemplary musical aspects as well – including the spirituals that capture the essence of the film’s emotional arc.
Conclusion:
Freedom is a film showcasing a tale of perseverance and sacrifice epitomizing the often brutal struggle to attain justice and redemption. It centers around the multifaceted experience with bondage and spiritual awakening by narrating the story of a slave who seeks freedom alongside a slave trader who yearns for salvation.
Freedom is not a perfect film, but through it the viewer witnesses the endurance of faith, the staggering reality of humanity’s past, and the all too quiet valor of those who resolve to do what they believe is right, regardless of the consequences. The film reminds the audience that freeeon, in every aspect, is an ideal worth fighting for, and the steps taken towards it often catalyzes profound change.
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