And the Oscar goes to.....12 Years A Slave

That's right.  I am calling it.  And yes, I know it is only November. 

"Based on an incredible true story of one man's fight for survival and freedom. In the pre-Civil War United States, Solomon Northup (Chiwetel Ejiofor), a free black man from upstate New York, is abducted and sold into slavery. Facing cruelty (personified by a malevolent slave owner, portrayed by Michael Fassbender), as well as unexpected kindnesses, Solomon struggles not only to stay alive, but to retain his dignity. In the twelfth year of his unforgettable odyssey, Solomon's chance meeting with a Canadian abolitionist (Brad Pitt) will forever alter his life. Written by Fox Searchlight"

Rated R for violence/cruelty, some nudity and brief sexuality

When I was asked for my one or two word reaction to this film, all I could think to say was "Ashamed.  I feel ashamed."  Definitely one of the most difficult movies I have ever sat through.  Certainly the most important one.

I can not even fathom the helplessness Solomon Northup (bravely portrayed by Chiwetel Ejiofor) must have felt.  Nor can I imagine how an African American actor was able to hold his feelings in check while acting out this horrific chain of events.

This is what movie making is all about - this is why it is such a big part of my life.  These movies, based on true life events - especially a historical movie such as this needs to be the lens through which we teach our children.  One has to agree - if a teenager is forced to study and report on slavery after watching this movie, he will be much more aware of the hatred and flith than had he read about it in a textbook.

This brilliant cast - Fassbender, Cumberbatch, N'yongo, Pitt, the list goes on and on -  they all did an amazing job of telling this story.  There was never room for romanticizing or making excuses.  It is as it was.  Horrible.  Disgusting.  Heartbreaking.

But it is also a testament to the human spirit and what we can endure if we have no choice.  These people in his story - these are true heroes. 

Steve McQueen deserves to win an Oscar for this authentic movie - I only wish Solomon Northup were still here to receive the standing ovation he deserves.  And so much more.