Rugby...

From director Clint Eastwood (Gran Torino) comes this extraordinary tale of courage, honor and dignity. One that brings the daunting life of blacks in South Africa to light, without boring its audience with the typical History Channel attitude. Invictus breathes new life into the apartheid struggles that plagued the nation of South Africa for nearly 50 years.

Based on a true story, this film follows the controversial election of Nelson Mandela (Morgan Freeman) and his campaign to host the 1995 Rugby World Cup. As a way to gain respect among the nation's white citizens, Mandela developed a slogan: "one team, one country". With this in mind, it would surely demand support for the nation's abysmal rugby team.

Francois Pienaar, played by Matt Damon, was the captain of the Springbokke team during these tough seasons. Standing behind his promise, Mandela takes interest in the rugby team's performance and meets with Pienaar at his presidential palace - much to his surprise I might add. Before this era, rugby was predominantly a game played by whites, for the enjoyment whites - but this was all destined to change.

Director Clint Eastwood captures the story in one of the most original ways possible - focusing on rugby as a sort of political tool. The majority of the film is seen through the perspective of Nelson Mandela, which points out the importance of his role in the country's restructuring. Using rugby as a tool not only reunited a country, but gave us this amazing opportunity to relive to story - with thanks for Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon.

As Francois Pienaar, Matt Damon gives his best performance to date - he nails the accent, the rugby skills and most of all, he shows us a different side. He gives remarkably stunning monologues throughout and is, in my opinion, a shoe-in for an Oscar nomination. Without a doubt, Damon gives Morgan Freeman a run for his money in Invictus. I knew he had it in him - now let's hope he does more films that he can really sink his teeth into. With 9 films still yet to spool, Matt Damon is definitely keeping himself busy these days. Look for him in the upcoming film Green Zone -

We all love the voice of Morgan Freeman - but how does his on screen appearance come off as he plays world renowned figure Nelson Mandela? One word: brilliant. But we really didn't expect anything less from the actor, who wowed us in Shawshank Redemption and keeps us enthralled with his smooth, gentle voice as a narrator in more than 10 films and documentaries. Back to Invictus - Freeman gives an outstanding performance that really dug deep into the life of Mandela. From his struggles with his family, to his triumph over apartheid and political oppression, Freeman delivers. I cannot say anything more about this man, for he is a legend in the business. Look for him soon in the untitled Batman project - he is also rumored to be starring alongside Bruce Willis in a political thriller. I'll keep everyone updated on the progress!

All in all, this films hits all the right notes. Invictus tells the story of Francois Pienaar, Nelson Mandela and the South African Springbokke with ease - providing short history lessons that keep the plot alive. Even if you're not a rugby fan this film will astonish you! Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon make Invictus, along with the direction of veteran Clint Eastwood.

Invictus trailer (courtesy of Youtube)






"It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll,
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul." - portion of poem given to Francois Pienaar by Nelson Mandela