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invictus movie review essay

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Morgan Freeman has been linked to one biopic of Nelson Mandela or another for at least 10 years. Strange that the only one to be made centers on the South African rugby team. The posters for Clint Eastwood 's "Invictus" feature Matt Damon in the foreground, with Freeman looming behind him in shadowy nobility. I can imagine the marketing meetings during which it was lamented that few Americans care much about about Mandela and that Matt Damon appeals to a younger demographic.

Screw 'em, is what I would have contributed. The achievement of Nelson Mandela is one of the few shining moments in recent history. Here is a man who was released after 24 years of breaking rocks in prison and sleeping on the floor to assume leadership of the nation that jailed him. His personal forgiveness of white South Africa was the beacon that illuminated that nation's Truth and Reconciliation Commissions, one of the very few examples in history of people who really had much to forgive, and forgave it. Let us not forget that both black and white had reasons to grieve, and reasons to forgive, and that in many cases they were facing the actual murderers of their loved ones.

Compared to that, what really does it matter that an underdog Springbok team, all white with one exception, won the World Cup in rugby in the first year of Mandela's rule? I understand that in a nation where all the races are unusually obsessed by sport, the World Cup was an electrifying moment when the pariah state stood redeemed before the world -- even if soccer is the black man's game there, and rugby is the white's. It was important in the way the Beijing Olympics were important to China.

Clint Eastwood, I believe, understood all of these things and also sought to make a film he believed he could make, in an area where he felt a visceral connection. Eastwood is too old and too accomplished to have an interest in making a film only for money. He would have probably read the screenplays for the previous Mandela projects. They all had one thing in common: They didn't get made. It was universally agreed that Morgan Freeman was the right actor (Mandela and he met and got along famously), but the story, financing and deal never came together. Eastwood made the film that did get made.

It is a very good film. It has moments evoking great emotion, as when the black and white members of the presidential security detail (hard-line ANC activists and Afrikaner cops) agree with excruciating difficulty to serve together. And when Damon's character -- Francois Pienaar, as the team captain -- is shown the cell where Mandela was held for those long years on Robben Island. My wife, Chaz, and I were taken to the island early one morning by Ahmed Kathrada, one of Mandela's fellow prisoners, and yes, the movie shows his very cell, with the thin blankets on the floor. You regard that cell and you think, here a great man waited in faith for his rendezvous with history.

The World Cup was a famous victory. The Springboks faced a New Zealand team so dominant it had crushed every opponent -- Japan by around 90 points, which in rugby is a lot. South Africa won in overtime. About that team name: The South African national teams have been called the Springboks since time immemorial (New Zealand is known as the All Blacks). A springbok is on the tail of every South African Airlines airplane. It's the national logo. Would Mandela change the name to one less associated with the apartheid regime? He would not. Join me in a thought experiment. An African American is elected mayor of Boston. He is accepted, grudgingly in some circles. How would it go over if he changed the name of the Red Sox?

Freeman does a splendid job of evoking the man Nelson Mandela, who is as much a secular saint as Gandhi (who led his first campaign in Durban, South Africa). He shows him as genial, confident, calming -- over what was clearly a core of tempered steel. The focus is on his early time in office. I believe there may be one scene with a woman representing Winnie Mandela, but the dialogue is vague. Damon is effective at playing the captain, Francois Pienaar, an Afrikaner, child of racist parents, transformed by his contact with "the greatest man I've ever met." Clint Eastwood, a master director, orchestrates all of these notes and has us loving Mandela, proud of Francois and cheering for the plucky Springboks. A great entertainment. Not, as I said, the Mandela biopic I would have expected.

Roger Ebert

Roger Ebert

Roger Ebert was the film critic of the Chicago Sun-Times from 1967 until his death in 2013. In 1975, he won the Pulitzer Prize for distinguished criticism.

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Invictus movie poster

Invictus (2009)

Rated PG-13 for brief strong language

134 minutes

Matt Damon as Francois

Patrick Lyster as Francois' father

Leleti Khumalo as Mary

Louis Minnaar as Springbok coach

Jason Tshabalala as Tony

Morgan Freeman as Nelson Mandela

Directed by

  • Clint Eastwood

Based on the book by

  • John Carlin
  • Anthony Peckham

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  • Invictus Summary

Nelson Mandela is released from Robben Island after serving twenty-six years of a life sentence for conspiring against the South African state. His release also marks the beginning of the end of apartheid, a general election, and the re-entry of South Africa into the world, including the international sporting events and championships that they have been prohibited from participating in since the beginning of apartheid. When Mandela wins the election, he vows to unite a divided nation; the majority of the black population are jubilant and hopeful, but the white Afrikaners and the Zulu are worried that they are losing their rights in the country. As Mandela rides in a convoy down the street he sees black kids playing soccer on one side of him and white kids playing rugby on the other. The national rugby team coach tells his players that the country has gone to the dogs.

When Mandela takes office, there is palpable tension because Mandela inherits a staff that consists predominantly of Afrikaners who served in the previous administration. Rather than working, they start to pack their things, convinced that they are about to be fired, but when Mandela gathers everyone for a meeting, he tells the staff that he doesn't intend to fire anyone. Rather he wants the old regime and the new administration to work together, so that everyone in the nation is represented.

Mandela's vision of unity extends to the rugby field. Chester Williams is the only black member of an all-white national team led by stand-out Francois Pienaar . To the black people of South Africa, rugby is a symbol of the racism of past regimes. They root against their own team. The Springboks are not experienced in international competition; they are rusty and unprepared for unfamiliar opponents, and lose most of their games. This does not bode well for their hosting the Rugby World Cup the following year.

Mandela begins a campaign to unite the country through rugby. He overrules the Sports Commission when they decide to change the name of the team from the Springboks to the Proteas, knowing that by doing so he is preventing the alienation of the Afrikaners. Mandela's obsession with rugby angers many in his new administration because they think he should be worried about loftier things than sports. Mandela ignores them and invites team captain Francois to tea. Mandela and Francois find a great deal of common ground, and Mandela tells Francois that it is important to draw inspiration from within to overcome the seemingly insurmountable. In the course of the meeting, Mandela manages to get across the Francois his belief in the importance of success in the tournament for uniting a fractured nation.

Francois encourages the team to learn the national anthem, but most don't take him seriously and see the national anthem as belonging only to black South Africans. Mandela then mandates that the team go out to the black townships and work with the young kids there. At first, the only black player on the team, Chester Williams, is the only player the children recognize, but soon, the kids become familiar with the other players as well, and the visit is a success.

The Springboks shock everyone by beating Australia's Wallabies in the first round. The further they go into the tournament the more support they receive from their fans. Francois brings the team to Robben Island, where he is stunned to see how small Mandela's cell was. He thinks of a poem, "Invictus" by William Ernest Henley, that Mandela mentioned to him. The poem is all about resilience and bravery in the face of obstacles.

The day before the final, the team take their usual morning run and find themselves followed by South Africans of all races, ages and backgrounds. The security team around Mandela is worried because this is the most public appearance he has made. They place additional sharpshooters around the stadium, and one jet dips low into the airspace above the stadium so that the words "Go Springboks" are visible to the crowd below.

The World Cup final is between the Springboks, and the New Zealand All Blacks, one of the most successful teams in the history of the game, and the clear favorites to win. The game is close; each time New Zealand scores, the Springboks have to catch up, and the game ends in their favor, 15-12. Celebration breaks out throughout the country, with South Africans dancing together in the street. Mandela presents the trophy to Francois, and rides through the streets of a city united by the victory.

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Invictus Questions and Answers

The Question and Answer section for Invictus is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

I'm not sure that creativity was a theme or motif in the film but you can check the characters out below:

https://www.gradesaver.com/invictus/study-guide/character-list

Why does Mandela want the National Sports Council to reverse the vote which would change the name and colours of the Springboks

When Mandela gets wind of the fact that the National Sports Council has voted to completely reconstitute the national rugby team, he goes directly to their meeting to speak with them and convince them to keep the old rugby team. In spite of...

How did Mandela view change?

Mandela viewed change as integral to the healing of South Africa. Mandela's chief aim as the first black president of South Africa is to unify its people. He sees the divisions of race that took place during apartheid and wants to find a way to...

Study Guide for Invictus

Invictus study guide contains a biography of director Clint Eastwood, literature essays, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis.

  • About Invictus
  • Character List
  • Director's Influence

Essays for Invictus

Invictus essays are academic essays for citation. These papers were written primarily by students and provide critical analysis of Invictus, directed by Clint Eastwood.

  • “Let me lead you now”: The Challenges and Triumphs of Leadership in 'Ransom' and 'Invictus'
  • The power of storytelling in Ransom and Invictus

Wikipedia Entries for Invictus

  • Introduction

invictus movie review essay

Leadership in the “Invictus” Movie Essay (Movie Review)

The movie “Invictus” was directed by Clint Eastwood, and it premiered in 2009. The biographical movie features two renowned actors, Matt Damon, and Morgan Freeman. “Invictus” is a film that details the events that transpired when Nelson Mandela took over as South Africa’s president in 1994. The film’s main theme is the unifying power of sports. In the film, President Nelson Mandela uses the 1995 rugby world-cup campaign to unite the divided South Africans.

The movie’s storyline is based on the book “Playing the Enemy: Nelson Mandela and the Game that Made a Nation” by John Carlin. Both the main and the supporting actors exhibit strong leadership qualities in the course of the unfolding storyline. Nelson Mandela is the country’s leader, while Francois Pienaar is leading the Springboks. Nelson Mandela resolves to use rugby to remedy the divisions in his post-apartheid country. However, this resolve is difficult to implement because the country’s rugby team is a symbol of black oppression. Consequently, Mandela uses his strong leadership to turn rugby into the country’s symbol of unification. This paper is a critique of “Invictus” and Mandela’s character from a leadership perspective, especially in relation to the drama of human life.

The most prominent feature in “Invictus” is the use of rugby as a symbol of unity. Mandela gets the idea of using rugby as a symbol of unity when he witnesses black South Africans cheering for the English rugby team instead of their home team. Mandela remembers that when he was in prison, he too used to support opposing teams. However, Mandela recognizes that this trend was bad for the newly united South Africa. Therefore, Mandela decides to use the symbol of the national rugby team to unite his subjects.

The decision to use rugby as a symbol was quite unpopular with the majority black-population, and it was even opposed by Mandela’s chief of staff. Mandela’s ‘adamancy’ is a testament to his strong leadership skills. Mandela’s desire was to have a united South Africa, and he was willing to work against the tides of prejudice to achieve his goal. The desires of Mandela as a leader coincide with South Africa’s need for unity.

As a leader, Mandela takes on a tough challenge of redefining how South Africans viewed the Springboks. Previously, the Springboks were a symbol of apartheid and oppression. The team was dominated by white players, and to black South Africans, the ‘white team’ was just another reminder of apartheid’s mechanisms. In the end, Mandela successfully redefines rugby from being a symbol of segregation to being a symbol of unity. The reason behind this quick success is Mandela’s leadership style. First, Mandela begins by recognizing that things need to change, and he envisions this through the game of rugby. Second, the president trusts his instincts and decides to face the challenges that await his plans. The ability to do these things indicates that Mandela’s leadership is resolute, inspired, and focused (Heifetz, 1998).

One of the most captivating scenes in “Invictus” involves Mandela’s chief bodyguard Jason. Jason busts into Mandela’s office and expresses concern that some white bodyguards have reported working as part of the president’s security detail. President calmly informs Jason that the new South African government represents a new and united front. The president also informs Jason that the men who report to work are adequately trained, and the color of their skin does not affect their resume. According to Mandela, the president’s workers are also the face of the new South Africa- a rainbow nation. Furthermore, in this scene, the president tells Jason that “forgiveness liberates the soul….removes fear…it is a powerful tool” (Eastwood, 2009).

The reason why Jason is shocked by Mandela’s acceptance of white bodyguards is that it was expected that the new black leadership would sideline the white minority in its activities. Therefore, in case of a dispute between a white and a black citizen, it was expected that Mandela would side with the blacks. However, from the conversation between Mandela and Jason, it was clear that the former was not going to be taking sides when leading South Africa from the ashes of apartheid. Mandela’s stand came as a shock to both the white minorities and the black majority. The white minorities expected President Mandela’s government to be petty, corrupt, and vindictive against the former ruling elite. On the other hand, the majority black population was eager to retaliate against the oppression that had been experienced during apartheid. Mandela’s superior leadership skills enabled him to steer the country out of this division by focusing the masses towards a common goal.

In another scene, the president meets with the captain of the rugby Francois Pienaar. Even though the rugby team is expected to perform very poorly in the world championships, the president instills confidence in the captain by informing him that it is possible for the team to win. By telling the captain that the team can win, the president plants a seed of hope in Pienaar. Mandela’s inspirational leadership effectively draws Pienaar to his vision. This is evident when the captain goes home and immediately informs his wife about his meeting with the president. Leadership, as exhibited by President Mandela in this scene, involves inspiring followers to achieve their best (Northouse, 2013).

Some of the most prominent leadership qualities that are evident in this scene include humbleness, concern, and kindness. For example, the president proceeds to serve himself when the tea is brought to the table. Furthermore, the president respectfully addresses his junior staff and proceeds to show concern towards Pienaar’s ankle injury. Mandela’s behavior is not synonymous with that of most presidents, but it is a sign of unique leadership. Presidents are the ones who receive service, respect, kindness, and concern, but they rarely show these to others. Pienaar’s initial perception of the president becomes the cornerstone of their relationship throughout the movie. The rugby team captain uses his own leadership position to transfer Mandela’s vision for a united South Africa.

One characteristic of great leadership is the ability to affect organizational change. However, people’s behaviors are the secret to effecting organizational change. When people change their behaviors, systems of doing things do too. In “Invictus,” the main character is fully aware that organizational change depends on the behaviors of the citizens. In the film, Mandela understands that “organizations and institutions do not change, but people do” (Nielsen, 2005).

Therefore, the president targets sports as a tool for behavior modification. The first thing that Mandela does is to identify the behaviors that might amount to behavioral change. For instance, Mandela is aware that the captain of the rugby team might change the behaviors of the other team members. On the other hand, this behavioral change warrants the rugby team’s widespread support across South Africa. Mandela’s support of the rugby team motivates black South Africans to come together with their former oppressors. As a leader, Mandela manages to effect institutional change when they win by Springboks, a rugby team that was formerly associated with apartheid, is celebrated by South Africans of all races.

The average human being reacts in a certain way when he/she is faced with challenges. However, when Mandela is faced with challenges, he reacts by doing the unexpected. One example of this unexpectedness is when Mandela shows up at the stadium and sits in places that his security detail considers ‘unsafe.’ Mandela’s actions are unexpected because before, and after he became president, there were several assassination attempts that had targeted his life.

However, by sitting in ‘ordinary’ places at the stadium, he conveys the message of a peaceful nation to his subjects. Furthermore, Mandela is considerate of all his subjects. He is able to listen to the views of the people he disagrees with and even extend an olive branch to them. For instance, Mandela is not afraid of faulting the advice of those who are close to him, such as his chief of staff. The strength of Mandela’s leadership is also portrayed by the manner in which he handles divergent views. Even though Mandela shares divergent opinions with some of his staff members, he still finds it worthwhile to continue working with them.

“Invictus” was hailed as a critical success when it premiered mostly because of its historical relevance. The movie highlights Mandela’s unique and effective leadership. As a leader, the main character is positive, exemplary, relevant, inspirational, persistent, witty, and dedicated.

Eastwood, C. (Director). (2009). Invictus [Motion picture]. United States: Malpaso Productions. Web.

Heifetz, R. (1998). Leadership without easy answers . Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press. Web.

Nielsen, J. (2005). The myth of leadership: Creating leaderless organizations . Palo Alto, CA: Davies-Black Publishing. Web.

Northouse, P. (2013). Leadership: Theory and practice . Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications. Web.

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IvyPanda. (2020, May 25). Leadership in the "Invictus" Movie. https://ivypanda.com/essays/leadership-in-the-invictus-movie/

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Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Leadership in the "Invictus" Movie." May 25, 2020. https://ivypanda.com/essays/leadership-in-the-invictus-movie/.

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Enlightnotes

Table of Contents

Invictus cinematography analysis, essay 1: ‘despite the fears of others, mandela’s vision for something new achieves great change.’ discuss..

  • Essay 2 : ‘I am the master of my fate/ I am the captain of my soul’. What does the film suggest about the impact an individual’s conviction can have on external forces?
  • Essay 3 : ‘Eastwood uses minor characters to demonstrate Mandela’s true impact.’ Discuss.
  • Essay 4: Mandela tells his daughter Zindzi, “you criticize without understanding. You seek only to address your own feelings. This is selfish thinking.” ‘Invictus explores the idea that leaders must be the examples of change they wish to see’. Discuss.
  • Essay 5: Winning the World Cup represents more than a sporting victory in Invictus. Discuss.
  • Essay 6: Eastwood uses the film Invictus to demonstrate that the similarities between Pienaar and Mandela are more important than their differences. Discuss.
  • Essay 7 : ’The film explores how South Africa comes to feel pride.’ To what extent do you agree?
  • Essay 8 : Invictus demonstrates that revenge will not help wrongs to be made right. Discuss.

The opening scene

Screen Shot 2019-01-27 at 9.10.46 AM.png

Invictus’ opening scenes juxtapose the difference in socio-economic and cultural identities of the racially segregated south African society. These two vastly different settings and environments/ people and sports are taken with one camera shot, without any cuts. This single camera shot emphasises the paradox that the two different South African communities share physical proximity/ are close to each other in terms of physical space, yet are worlds away in terms of their values and beliefs.

Screen Shot 2019-01-27 at 3.07.14 PM.png

*The security guards converse and comment how Mandela is making himself an “easy target”.

The sense of danger and uncertainty is emphasized by the darkness of this frame. Furthermore, the use of under lit, low key lighting to illuminate only the security personnel but nothing else in the surrounding environment portrays how isolated the black south Africans are from the rest of their society. It also casts a harsh, eerie shadow on the faces of the characters in the scene to create a sense of suspense. This sets the audience members up to expect opposition to Mandela’s presidency. Thus from the beginning of the movie, Eastwood reinforces the idea that Mandela has a tremendous task ahead of him.

The sun is rising above the poor township

Screen Shot 2019-01-27 at 3.15.38 PM.png

This establishing shot symbolically represents the dawn of a new day for the black South Africans. It foreshadows the very ending of the movie, where Mandela would have successfully reunited the white and black South Africans through the Springboks and rugby.

Other potential symbols Light in darkness – a symbol of hope? The sun shines for everyone – a comment on equality?

The news anchor later says, “today marks the beginning of a new era in South Africa as President Mandela takes office… balancing black aspirations with white fear” to contextualize the beginning of the movie. Audience members are clearly situated at the beginning of Mandela’s relentless effort to reunite his country.

Mandela’s first day in the office

Screen Shot 2019-01-27 at 3.22.30 PM.png

Mandela says “Ah Brenda you got your hair done” & shares a smile with his assistant on the first day as the president. This demonstrates his affable, genuinely caring character. Mandela is not disconnected from the people he works with, he builds good relationships.

Mandela’s staff meeting

Screen Shot 2019-01-27 at 3.26.12 PM.png

The mise en scene of this frame is such that Mandela must walk through the crowded room of his mostly white staff before standing at the front. This establishing scene is shot in such a way that we can see the entire room, including some empty seats. In the face of this lukewarm reception, Mandela’s inspiring speech cuts through the atmosphere of uncertainty and hesitance to encourage them to cooperate in rebuilding South Africa.

Mandela’s staff meeting speech

Screen Shot 2019-01-27 at 3.39.01 PM.png

As this scene/ Mandela’s speech lifts the staff’s spirits and instills in them a shared vision for the country, the camera zooms in on Mandela’s face. The close up shot is sharply focused on his calm and determined demeanor/ face which occupies the left half of the frame, with the country’s flag in the background. This speaks volumes about the Mandela’s belief in himself and his country, that they would indeed eventually succeed at implementing something new.

*Mandela says “could not help noticing the empty offices” // “if you want to leave, that is your right” // “The past is the past. We look to the future now. We need your help. We want your help” // “… you would be doing your country a great service.” // “Our country will be like a shining light in the world”

Confrontation among the security guards

Screen Shot 2019-01-28 at 6.50.44 PM.png

Eastwood utilises tight, close-up framing in this scene as to allude to the confrontation between black and white South Africans.  By this, the director draws us in to the agitated, bemused expressions on Jason and Linga, who immediately clash with the new SAS bodyguards they must partner with.  Jason stresses the personal bond between his team and the President – ‘[Madiba] that’s what we call him’.  This immediately shows the distaste that the black South Africans have towards their ‘enemies’, the Afrikaners. (Source: https://www.vcestudyguides.com/blog/invictus-film-technique-analysis-how-can-i-write-about-it)

Springboks vs England

Screen Shot 2019-01-27 at 8.55.42 AM.png

In this scene, Eastwood utilises wide, high angle framing to represent the enormity of the stadium; filled with Afrikaners who, predominantly, detest the new President.  Still, even as the framing is constantly filled with these Springboks sports fans, the director shows us the smiling, confident Mandela, who warmly waves to his new ‘partners in democracy’ without fear or distaste.

Screen Shot 2019-01-27 at 8.55.02 AM.png

We can see this as the camera draws in on Mandela’s facial expressions.  Moreover, the courage of Mandela is exhibited as he exits the stadium and a sports fan hurls a drink at him.  Even despite that he ‘sees everything’, Mandela continues to wave and smile at the crowd. (Source: https://www.vcestudyguides.com/blog/invictus-film-technique-analysis-how-can-i-write-about-it)

Mandela at the Springboks vs England game

Screen Shot 2019-01-27 at 9.02.31 AM.png

Binoculars, as a prop, symbolize Mandela’s vision for South Africa. It also demonstrates his solution to reuniting the country: by focusing on rugby. Brenda’s glasses are utilized by Eastwood to representing clarity of vision.

The shot is tightly framed by Mandela’s binoculars. The audience members are positioned to look at the game from a narrow perspective, Mandela’s perspective. This shot emphasizes that the key to Mandela’s domestic policy is focusing on the Springboks, rather than being influenced and distracted by the chaos of the crowd.

Springboks vs England game

Screen Shot 2019-01-27 at 3.49.13 PM.png

The team stands in the middle of the field during half time. With the crowd looking on and cheering, Pienaar desperately urges his team “come on okes, we need to focus! Focus! Focus!” to win their game against the English rugby team. In this scene, audience members are positioned to look up to Pienaar’s face due to the camera’s angle. Audience members are persuaded to view Pienaar as a heroic, charismatic, and capable team captain who has a strong desire to see the Springboks be victorious. Importantly, he has also set the direction and taught them the way to do it (Focus! Focus!). As the Springboks prepare to play the second half of the match, the camera tracks in an arc along the team’s huddle from the outside. Audience members understand two things. Firstly, Pienaar was in the middle of the group; the team captain must be in the thick of the action. Secondly, the Springboks demonstrate great unity; it foreshadows that this team will pave the way for the country’s eventual reunification.

Springboks played “without discipline, without strategy, and without courage” and lose to England

Screen Shot 2019-01-27 at 8.59.13 AM.png

Eastwood demonstrates Pienaar as a prominent leader in the Springbok team.  He is made out to be responsible for ‘[his] team’s’ dismal performance.  Tight, close-up framing shows the audience a defeated Pienaar, a captain and leader who has brought ‘shame upon’ the South African nation, and as the rugby president suggests, deserves to ‘get the axe’.  The harsh, low-key lighting of the frame draws in on the raked and bruised Pienaar, who is isolated as the key to the Boks having ‘their tails between their legs’ throughout the game.” Pienaar is personally affected by the team’s poor performance.

Outside the church

Screen Shot 2019-01-27 at 4.06.36 PM.png

The wide shot that gives us a wide view of the slums subsequently tracks down to give audience members a more detailed view of the abject poverty the blacks live in. As our eyes follow the downward motion of the camera, we are literally and figuratively looking down on this community, we thus feel a sense of sympathy for them. As the camera pans to the right, the carefree children running around and the small business gives us a faint glimmer of hope.

Inside the church

Screen Shot 2019-01-27 at 9.07.35 AM.png

“You’re a very lucky boy!” / Sipho’s unmistakeable disappointment – even though he’s receiving charity items/ something for free, he refuses to take the jersey because “the Springboks represent apartheid” // clueless white woman (Why won’t he take it?) in contrast to the black woman + Sipho

At the National Sports Council

Screen Shot 2019-01-27 at 4.21.59 PM.png

“All those in favor of eliminating those Springboks, raise your hand!” The establishing shot shows a crowded room in the midst of a meeting. Tensions are simmering as the NSC leader ignites resentment toward the Springboks and actively encourages the room to unite and destroy them. The dynamic and united action of the raised fist demonstrates solidarity; the disenfranchised blacks are finally ready to fight back against the whites. The atmosphere is charged with incendiary energy as they chant “Viva protest viva”

Mandela on his way to the NSC

Screen Shot 2019-01-27 at 4.26.23 PM.png

Upon finding out about the NSC meeting, Mandela abandons the Japanese trade delegation to intervene. The tightly framed and closely shot scene features a camera tracking, moving in tandem with Mandela and Brenda as they converse. This walk and talk scene adds a sense of urgency to Mandela, characterizing him as a man on a mission. In this frame, Mandela is resolute and single minded in his focus to advise the NSC to make peace with the Springboks alone. He rejects all of Brenda’s advice and warnings. Even if he risks “alienating [his] cabinet and [his] party”, Mandela will intercede on behalf of the Springboks and stop the NSC’s plans.

Mandela disrupts the NSC meeting in style

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“Our enemy is no longer the Afrikaaner. They are our fellow South Africans, our partners in democracy… We have to surprise them with compassion, with restraint, and generosity.”

Camera angle positions audience members to look up to Mandela, which mirrors the respect, admiration, and awe the black South Africans have for their Madiba who has crashed their NSC meeting. This is a close up shot, featuring Mandela as the main focal point of this frame. Though he comes to the NSC Meeting with every intention to oppose popular opinion and overturn their vote to destroy the SB, he does so with confidence and a sense of calm.

Eastwood cuts to multiple establishing and medium shots of the same event, Mandela walking to the front of the room. Some from his perspective: camera tracks to the front of the room as the people clap and welcome him. Some are from behind his shoulder, enabling audience members to see him in the middle of the crowd, a popular leader.

After the NSC meeting

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Mandela is once again on the move with Brenda his assistant. Brenda expresses concerns over Mandela’s strategy, a surrogate for all the people who doubted and questioned whether he would be successful at uniting the country (“You can’t keep interrupting affairs of state to placate the minority” // “I must.”). His sunglasses symbolically represent one of two things. Firstly, the sunnies represent Mandela’s view of equality, that he sees his country as being one color only. Secondly, the sunnies symbolize that all of his actions and decisions are tainted an excess of overly optimistic self-belief. Or is it practical cos looking into the light would hurt his eyes (damaged by the sun when he was forced to do hard labor as a prisoner on Robben Island)

The Springboks lose again; Pienaar’s line of inspiration

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“I’d like to propose a toast to the taste of defeat. Drink it. Remember this and promise yourself never to taste it again”

Mandela makes various speeches

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The medium shot from behind the official UN podium puts Mandela in the foreground, surrounded by a regal and somber green background. It places emphasis on the importance of Mandela’s words and ideas, not just to South Africa, but for the international community as well.

In contrast wide shot of the UN hall employs dramatic lighting to intensify the gravitas of the occasion. Mandela is in the spotlight on this occasion, giving rise to the impression that this is truly a significant and momentous event in the movie and in his career. Mandela is relatively small in comparison to the crowd here, yet his speech and voice is amplified loud and clear for everyone to hear.

Sudden cut to a different scene and completely different setting. This is now a speech taking place outdoors, with natural light. Mandela’s speech just goes on seamlessly despite the cuts – a comment on how relentlessly Mandela works to advance South Africa by making speeches in numerous countries to facilitate trade.

Inside the Pienaar household

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The mise en scene of the Pienaar household is set up to be in contrast to the poverty of the South African projects. Eastwood utilizes establishing shots of the Pienaar living room to show audience members the details of how the white/black lives are different. This living room is totally enclosed, spacious and comfortable, with signs of conspicuous consumption everywhere. The pictures in frames hung up as decoration, the lamp that sits on a vintage wood cupboard to store their possessions, the sofas, the coffee table with a fruit bowl on it, the kitchen appliances, the electricity…

Mandela invites Pienaar to tea

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We see this from two perspectives as Eastwood cuts to two medium shots of the same event: firstly, from behind Mandela’s back. Pienaar receiving the cup of tea with a surprised expression and rigid, uncomfortable body language. Secondly, from diagonally behind Pienaar, where we can see Mandela extending the saucer to Pienaar. This camera work and symbolic gesture suggests equality between the two men.

*Mandela alludes to a poem and a song (African song)

*”We need inspiration, Francois. In order to build a new nation, we must all exceed our expectations.”

Pienaar goes back to real life

Screen Shot 2019-01-27 at 5.29.54 PM.png

“I think he wants us to win the world cup”

Tight, close up shot of Pienaar and his girlfriend inside a stationary car. Pienaar looks awe-struck in wonder after tea with the president & receiving the mantle/role/task to lead the Springboks to victory at the world cup.

The Springboks have to hold training sessions in the projects

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“We’ve become more than just a rugby team. You might as well get used to it.”

The medium shot has Pienaar in the middle of a confrontation with his team mates. He stands with his arms folded, facing off with the rest of his team. While Pienaar is resolute in following Mandela’s suggestion to hold training sessions in the projects as “times change, we need to change as well”. However, he is up against his team mates who vehemently disagree.

The springboks journey to the township

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Eastwood cuts to multiple shots of the same event to highlight the differences in perception. In the initial establishing shot, the camera pans from the roadside as the Springboks’ bus drives past to highlight the setting. In contrast to the well maintained gym where the Springboks were training in earlier, this frame shows dilapidated houses. This shot is from the point of view of the poorer black south Africans in the township, the people who do not identify with the Springboks.

Subsequently, Eastwood utilizes this shot from within the Springboks’ tour bus to depict the Springboks’ journey into the township. This establishing shot is framed from behind the window of the bus to heighten the sense of alienation from the team’s point of view. The Springboks are the outsiders, this experience for them in the township is one that is foreign. The lighting is deliberately dull and somber to reflect the team’s lack of enthusiasm to be in this unpleasant town.

Springboks meet the boys in the township

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“Who wants to play rugby?”

This wide shot depicts the barren land where the Sprignboks play rugby with the children in the township. Music plays (Shosohloza) over this scene where the relationships between the Springboks and the children. We also get to see the back of a sign, but Eastwood only reveals what this sign says at the end of this scene.

Screen Shot 2019-01-28 at 3.50.32 PM.png

The Springboks and the township children stand together in the middle of the field as the camera pans from the inside and tracks in an arc from the outside. Audience members see the unity and togetherness of previously estranged communities, which demonstrates that Mandela’s vision is becoming a success. This parallels the scene from the first Springbok vs England game team huddle.

Mandela working in his office

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Mandela is depicted all alone in his library, writing the poem, Invictus. The lighting is used to deliberately illuminate only Mandela from his side, depicting him with dignity and nobility. In contrast, the rest of the room is very dimly lit or in the shadows, and viewers can only see that Mandela is surrounded by bookshelves and books. The music that plays (9000 Days) starts playing in this scene, and carries on playing after a cut to the next scene to function as a linking device.

Springboks train for the world cup

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This wide shot depicts Pienaar leading his team in a run. As he is in front, this portrays how he has guided and steered his team to work hard to win the final. Viewers are encouraged to see Pienaar as a team captain who is also a man of action. Though the viewers cannot see the other pedestrians on the street, we can hear cheering off-screen for the Springboks.

Pienaar’s proposition

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“We need to learn the song. We can’t just mouth the words anymore.”

This establishing shot depicts Pienaar having a team meeting with the Springboks. As he tries to convince them to learn the South African anthem God Bless Africa, he is framed standing with his team mates who disagree with him.

Screen Shot 2019-01-28 at 4.16.20 PM.png

As the scene goes on, the camera zooms in and focuses on Pienaar’s face. This is symbolically representative of how he is championing a new idea, and facing fierce opposition. He concedes that learning the anthem is optional.

The Springboks visit Robben Island

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This establishing shot focuses on the prison bars from outside the prison. In this shot, Eastwood frames Pienaar’s face with the bars. His face is rendered very small and in the shadows, almost as if he’s being caged in.

In this tightly framed, close up shot, Pienaar reflects on Mandela’s time in prison. This also symbolizes how Pienaar is also being imprisoned by Mandela’s and his country’s expectations for the upcoming world cup. The small enclosed setting is uncomfortable and stifling, perhaps a reflection on Pienaar’s role as team captain? Sound: Mandela’s voice reciting the poem, Invictus.

Screen Shot 2019-01-28 at 4.56.41 PM.png

“I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul”

The camera pushes in on the faces of these two leaders. As Pienaar spends time on Robben Island, Eastwood cuts to flashbacks of Mandela doing physical labor mining for limestone. Significance? Lighting?

Mandela collapses

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“He needs complete rest.”

This scene emphasises Mandela’s vulnerability and precarious health condition. The harsh lighting creates a dramatic contrast between light and dark. It illuminates only the pavement, leaving Mandela and his guards in the shadows. This is a comment on the uncertainty and danger that Mandela is in, viewers are encouraged to be shocked and concerned for this beloved leader.

Springboks watch the All Blacks vs England

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“I will break my arm, my leg, my neck, but I will not let that freaking guy go.”

The security guards play rugby

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This establishing shot is framed from behind a window, this is from Mandela’s perspective. As this is the field in front of Mandela’s office, it indicates how Mandela stresses unity from within his own team, just as he aims to reunite South Africa. Leading by example, being a man of action. This also proves that Mandela is not wasting his time by focusing on rugby.

Springboks in the rugby final

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On the other hand, this scene, whilst it continues to demonstrate the steadfast, affable nature of Mandela, shows the unification of South Africa.  Through Mandela’s support of the Springboks by wearing the green and gold, we can understand that the Springboks have subsided from once being a ‘prominent symbol of the apartheid era’.  By contrast to his first appearance, Mandela is now upheld as a leader to all; there is no jeering or booing, but lively backing of both the Boks and The President.  Mandela has fundamentally transformed the team who once brought ‘shame upon our nation’ into something to be proud of and excited for.

The camera pans around the stadium depicting cheering and applauding fans, who are even carrying the new South African flag.  Even more interestingly, the black South Africans who widely scorned the Springboks, are now watching the rugby final in support of their team; their country.

(Source: https://www.vcestudyguides.com/blog/invictus-film-technique-analysis-how-can-i-write-about-it)

The South African National Anthem

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As the stadium sings, Eastwood cuts to the anthem being played. With this song in the background, different groups of people are depicted observing the national anthem. The Springboks playing in the world final is an important national event, everyone regardless of their age or class or ethnicity or location is focusing on it.

Pienaar and the team huddle

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“We must disrupt them in the first phase. We can’t allow them to get the ball alone in space.”

Pienaar takes the lead and tells his team the strategy to win the All Black team. Initially Pienaar is seen with the stadium and some of his team mates listening attentively to his instructions. By the end of this team huddle, the camera pushes in on Pienaar’s face.

The game goes into overtime and the All Blacks missed their shot

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“This is it. This is our destiny!”

Pienaar holds a final team huddle. Music in the background: some south African song?

As Pienaar concludes his inspiring speech, the camera pushes in on Pienaar’s face. This not only emphasises the emotional quality of his words and how it’s pushing the Springboks on to victory. It allows viewers to see visible signs of how intensely challenging the game is. The blood trickling down his face is a symbol of his effort and sacrifice.

The Springboks have one final chance to win the game

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Eastwood pairs emotionally evocative music and slow motion depicting the last shot in the final minute of the world cup final. This stresses the heroism and creates a sense of high anticipation in the most crucial part of the game.

The Springboks win & everyone celebrates

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Eastwood uses quick cuts to depict different groups of people celebrating this historic victory. Exuberant atmosphere, joyful and celebratory.

The celebration continues

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Eastwood portrays victory through using low angles to depict the respective leaders. Viewers are encouraged to look up to them and perceive them as respectable people.

Lighting: Sunlight shining through the stadium to set the tone of optimism, that with self-belief we can achieve the impossible.

Screen Shot 2019-01-28 at 6.36.40 PM.png

“We had the support of 43 million South Africans”

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Mandela passes the trophy to Pienaar (repetition of the tea scene?)

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this quote seems more aimed at human captors and internal despair. People may imprison you unjustly; they may kill friends and family. But they cannot conquer your soul.

(Source: https://www.patheos.com/blogs/christandpopculture/2009/12/invictus-showcasing-the-power-of-leadership-forgiveness-and-hard-hitting-rugby/)

Camera movements:

  • Zooming, panning/tilting, tracking, hand-held

Mise en Scene: the arrangement of a frame; the artistic look of a shot in its elements of lighting, colour, camera techniques, sets, costumes, etc.

Hard light (harsh): sharp contrast that create distinct and shadows. Effect: feels dangerous, mysterious, moody, portrays the character as threatening, or trapped somehow, and maybe the situation is tense

Soft light (gentle): gradual shadows with softer edges. Effect: inviting, warm, friendly, portrays the character as honest, trustworthy, familiar

Light can orient the viewers, giving them clues about the setting and time of day

-soft gentle light of dawn or the harsh direct light of midday

-warm light: hot sweaty summer or cool light: cold dull winter

Lighting can evoke a mood or atmosphere and allude to how viewers should be feeling in any particular moment in the movie

-are we looking at harsh street lights that cast dangerous shadows as the characters move around in a shady part of town

-or are we walking along a familiar city side walk with warm and inviting lights spilling out from neighbours windows

-is the smoky light in a dimly lit jazz club emphasizing the dazzling leading lady on stage

-or is the stark and direct spotlight on a large theatre stage making the actor feel trapped and isolated & the room dark and tense?

It can characterize the actors, depicting them in a flattering and beautiful light to express their kindness, honesty and altruism. In contrast, lighting can obscure parts of their face to paint them as a mysterious, enigmatic character to increase the suspense.

Warm lighting may suggest joy, love, optimism, nostalgia, the growth of a romantic relationship. In contrast, cool lighting may suggest detachment, depression, and stagnation.

Front light (flat light no shadows; “neutral”)

Front light from a height (beauty light, romantic, mimics how we typically see people in real life. It is usually reserved for safe, comfortable and familiar characters.)

Top light (like the bohemian rhapsody video, lots of shadows, obscuring a lot of the face incl eyes. No eye contact, shadows are covering the character’s eyes, making it difficult for viewers to connect with the character or understand their intentions. It’s frustrating, isolating…)

Under lighting (like telling a ghost story illuminating all the face, shadows are cast upwards. Shadows are seen in parts of the face that seem unnatural to us, so it transforms the character into one that’s unsettling, scary, or dangerous))

Side light (half of your face is in shadow and half is in the light, conflicting!)

Edge light (one small edge, and small details of your actor is defined, but everything else is in the shadows)

Back light (separation between subject and background)

Lighit = control over what the viewers see or don’t see.

Point-of-view: the perspective from which the text is portrayed; the audience are driven to identify with characters portrayed.

Opening/resolution: how a narrative is introduced in setting up characters, settings, etc., how these develop and resolve at the end of a text.

Motif: a distinguishable feature which portrays a theme and idea about a character, setting, etc.‍

Visual symbols/ visual metaphors

diegetic were we can see the source of the sound, non-diegetic were we can’t see the source of the sound, ambient which is all the background sounds that could highlight the location i.e. birds singing, waves, cars or even wind, we also have sound effects this is sound that has been added in,

The title is Latin for “unconquerable” and also references the poem from a famous British writer William Ernest Henley.

“I am the master of my fate: I am captain of my soul.” These words form the heart of “Invictus,” the poem by William Earnest Henley and the title of Clint Eastwood’s new film. The poem comforted and renewed Nelson Mandela as he suffered imprisonment from 1964-1990 in Apartheid South Africa. The fall of Apartheid led not only to his release but his eventual election to the Presidency in 1994.

Invictus the film focuses on Mandela (played by Morgan Freeman) and Francois Pienaar (Matt Damon), the captain of the Springboks, South Africa’s rugby team. Once hated by blacks in South Africa as a symbol of white oppression, now disdained by whites for their poor performance on the field, the Springboks’ play in the 1995 Rugby World Cup becomes an unlikely opportunity for Mandela to seek unity in racially torn South Africa.

Clint Eastwood notches another success with Invictus, which uses a rugby championship as a means for examining South Africa’s transition from apartheid. Based on real-life events and told with deceptive simplicity

Invictus is a movie of ideas more than events

Not only are the odds against the Springboks very clear, but each gesture by the players, Mandela and his followers is weighted both with hope and expectation and with the fear of failure.

invictus movie review essay

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A Summary of The Movie Invictus

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Published: Aug 6, 2021

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invictus movie review essay

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Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon in Invictus (2009)

Review: Invictus

"W e need inspiration," declares Morgan Freeman as Nelson Mandela in the midst of Clint Eastwood's ceremonial tale of the 1995 rugby World Cup in post-apartheid South Africa. Mandela is ostensibly talking about the country as a whole, though he may as well be exhorting Invictus itself – a monolithic sporting saga that seems content to pose on the podium, lulled by the belief that its subject matter provides inspiration enough. At times it feels as though Eastwood has elected to skip the contest and proceed straight to the trophy presentation.

It's not that Mandela's turbulent first year as South Africa's president is lacking in drama. Invictus , which has its UK premiere tonight, plays out in a land scarred by apartheid and facing an uncertain future, led by an man still regarded by large swaths of the population as an unrepentant terrorist hell-bent on settling old scores. The genius of Mandela was in somehow managing to soothe these tensions, cajoling his countrymen towards an uneasy truce. But in charting this struggle, Eastwood sticks too close to the playbook and frames history as an airbrushed Hollywood heartwarmer. The implication is that, by the time our hero takes his seat at the world cup finals, none of these issues was ever a problem again.

Casting about for a symbol of the new, integrated South Africa, the newly elected president hits upon what initially seems an unruly and divisive candidate. The Springboks rugby team are not just languishing in the doldrums, they are also seen as a bastion of old white rule and therefore despised by the black majority who cheer whatever team is playing them. But Mandela spies an opportunity. He celebrates the Springboks' lone black player and sets out to woo its foursquare captain, François Pienaar (Matt Damon).

Raised in a family of racist Afrikaans, Pienaar goes to his first meeting like a man contemplating root canal surgery. Needless to say, he comes out converted. "He's the greatest man I've ever met," Pienaar gushes to his wife.

The rest of Invictus (which takes its name from the WE Henley poem) follows the Springboks' unlikely push towards the World Cup final, where they face-off against New Zealand. After a lifetime playing Cinderella, Pienaar's stoic maid is duly invited to the ball. Outside the stadium, a pair of white cops listen to the match on the radio while a black urchin eavesdrops a short distance away. But by the time the contest has reached its conclusion, the cops have hoisted the kid on their shoulders and are presumably planning to pay his way through college. Invictus is that kind of movie.

Decent acting keeps it halfway honest. While hardly a dead-ringer for Mandela, Freeman turns in a diligent, nuanced impersonation that at least hints at the private man behind the public image. His Mandela is by turns wise and wily; his seraphic smile concealing a life of shadows. Meanwhile, Damon makes a good fist of his role as Pienaar, although his character is seldom allowed to be more than a plot device: the Afrikaner who sees the light.

The trouble with Invictus is that it is more monument than motion picture: handsome, reverent and heavy. How curious that this cautious, constrained affair was recently handed the Freedom of Expression award by the National Board of Review. Freedom of expression? Really? Judged in terms of creativity, spectacle and drama, Invictus might as well be stuck on Robben Island.

  • Morgan Freeman
  • Clint Eastwood
  • Nelson Mandela
  • South Africa rugby team
  • South Africa in England 2003

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Invictus movie review

Invictus movie review

It is a breathtaking film about the power of forgiveness, the significance of sports, the art of transformative leadership, and unity among different races. keep reading the i nvictus movie review to know more., table of contents, movie premise, can he win an election but not lead a country, final thoughts, key takeaways.

The Latin word for unconquerable, undefeated, and invincible is ‘Invictus.’ Rugby is a metaphor in Clint Eastwood’s latest film to represent the struggle of South Africa’s first black president, Nelson Mandela (Morgan Freeman), to unify his racially divided country. A well-known fact about passionate sports enthusiasts is that they enjoy sports because they may witness a problem be settle vicariously while watching the sport. Real-life conflicts are notorious for being difficult to resolve, and Eastwood understands this intuitively. We will explore more about it in this Invictus movie review.

Movie Review: Invictus

Nelson Mandela’s return to politics after serving 27 years in jail was phenomenal. He then became South Africa’s first black president in 1994. It is a country ripped apart by years of brutal and bitter racism. Mandela’s spirituality was founded on the ideals of forgiveness, reconciliation, and ordinary kindness and civility. He faced difficulty finding a method to bring the country’s white and black residents together without offending either group.

He devised an unorthodox solution, vividly and brilliantly depicted in Clint Eastwood’s extraordinary spiritual movie Invictus, with a screenplay by Anthony Peckham and based on John Carlin’s book Playing the Enemy. The title is Latin for ‘unconquerable,’ taken from a renowned poem by British writer William Ernest Henley, written in 1875.

After Nelson Mandela (Morgan Freeman) was elected President of South Africa, the press addressed the question everyone was asking-

Many believe civil war is a serious possibility unless a mechanism is discovered to meet black people’s goals while assuaging white concerns. On his first day at his new job, Mandela urges white colleagues from President de Klerk’s administration to stay and work with him.

When he asks Jason Tshabalala (Tony Kgoroge) and Linga Moonsamy (Patrick Mofokeng), the leaders of his personal bodyguards, to work alongside Hendrick Booyens (Matt Stern) and Etienne Feyder (Julian Lewis Jones), white members of the Special Branch who were terrorizing blacks with their strong-arm tactics and racist hatred not long ago, are taken aback. They initially oppose their ‘Comrade President,’ until they realize how crucial it is for him to have visible members of both races on his team.

The new bodyguards are astounded by Mandela’s daily activities and even more so by his personal attention to their lives, which includes questions and compliments. His chief of staff, Brenda Mazibuko (Adjoa Andoh), urges him to focus on economic and foreign concerns. Still, Mandela devised his own brilliant plan to unite the divided country into a “rainbow nation.” When he learns that a sports commission wants to abandon the predominantly white national rugby team, the Springbok, the President appears before them and delivers a passionate speech in which he claims that taking away the rugby team from the Afrikaners will widen the racial divide and begin a new cycle of hatred and fear.

Even though the team and its badge remain a reminder of apartheid to many blacks, Mandela is sure that things can be turned around by pursuing a different course of action.

He says, sensing the atmosphere of vengeance and payback in the room. “The rainbow nation begins here.

Reconciliation begins here.

Here is where forgiveness begins.”

This rousing call is more than words; it is a call to conscience that Mandela cultivated with his adversaries during his long years in prison and forced labor.

Movie Review: Invictus

Invictus is based on a true story. Almost everything in the film is factual, from the history of the principal characters to the events that transformed the globe. That is what makes Invictus so incredible. There is no manipulation to make you feel inspired. Knowing that the events depicted occurred is enough to give you goosebumps. Even if you know what occurs from beginning to end, Invictus is still a rewarding experience.

Second, the portrayal of rugby can be unsatisfying. Part of this is due to the film’s focus on what happened in actual life, but it wouldn’t have hurt to make the games more interesting. People who have never seen the sport will have no idea what is going on and will honestly believe it is a boring, boorish game in which all points are scored on penalty kicks.

All the performances were good, and their character depiction was believable.

invictus movie review essay

While laden with true-life sports movie clichés, Invictus overcomes them by the strength of its performances and attention to political nuance, from blacks’ yearning to reclaim their country to whites’ worries of losing their voice in the new democratic nation.

Mandela’s ability to steer both factions toward unity with his forgiveness, respect, and fellowship principles will impress and inspire you. Invictus contains brief instances of strong language but is mostly clear of potentially offensive material.

  • Invictus is a breathtaking film about the power of forgiveness, the significance of sports, the art of transformative leadership, and unity among different races. You will get to experience all this while watching the movie.
  • It is a movie about Nelson Mandela’s return to politics, his work as the president of Africa, and how he changed people’s general mindset about race.
  • You will be impressed and inspired by how Mandela’s ability to steer both factions toward unity via his forgiveness, respect, and fellowship principles works in his favor. The movie contains strong language but is mostly clear of potentially offensive material.

Did you find this blog informative? If so, please share your thoughts in the comments section below. Click here to contact us for more information on the Invictus movie review. We would be happy to assist you with your queries.

Liked this blog? Read next: Rango movie review | A delightful watch

Q1. Where can I see Invictus’s movie?

Ans- Invictus, a drama film starring Morgan Freeman, Matt Damon, and Tony Kgoroge, is now streaming on Netflix. You may watch it on Amazon Prime Video, Vudu, Apple TV, or Redbox.

Q2. What is the message of Invictus movie?

Ans- Invictus is uplifting, liberating, and inspiring. When Mandela (Freeman) became President of South Africa, he used the magic of rugby to bring everyone in South Africa closer together. He focuses on Pienaar (Damon) and teaches him how to be a better leader for his squad.

Q3. What happens at the end of Invictus?

Ans- In the end, South Africa wins by three points over New Zealand as the clock runs out. South Africa triumphs 15-12. The streets of South Africa are filled following the trophy presentation, with South Africans of various ancestries celebrating the Springboks.

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Home / Essay Samples / Entertainment / Movies / Movie Review

Invictus Summary & Analysis by William Ernest Henley

Essay details

Literature , Entertainment

Poems , Movies

Invictus , Movie Review , Plot

  • Words: 939 (2 pages)

Please note! This essay has been submitted by a student.

Table of Contents

Introduction, summary of the movie, conflict and denouement.

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Home / Essay Samples / Literature / Invictus / Invictus Movie Reflection: A Story of Hope and Triumph

Invictus Movie Reflection: A Story of Hope and Triumph

  • Category: Literature
  • Topic: Invictus

Pages: 3 (1464 words)

Views: 1667

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  • Northouse, P. G. (2018). Introduction to Leadership: Concepts and Practice (4th ed.). Los Angeles: SAGE.
  • Warner Bros. (2009). Invictus.
  • Henley, W. E. (n.d.). Invictus by William Ernest Henley - Poems | Academy of American Poets. Retrieved April 13, 2020, from https://poets.org/poem/invictus

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