A United Kingdom, directed by Amma Asante (best known for the 2013 film Belle), is based on the true story of the marriage of Seretse Khama from Bechuanaland (now the nation of Botswana) and his English wife Ruth Williams.
Their love does not come without a fight as they must both battle against the racism and politics of their time, one that would like nothing more than to keep them apart. (EBT: 4/5)
Review by FF2 Contributor Elyse Thaler (with two cents from FF2 Editor-in-Chief Jan Lisa Huttner)
The first act of A United Kingdom focuses on how “Seretse” (David Oyelowo) and “Ruth” (Rosamund Pike) meet and fall in love. Seretse is in London studying to be a lawyer so that when he returns to his native Bechuanaland (now the nation of Botswana), he will bring knowledge that will benefit his people. It is the late 1940s, so though as an African man Seretse is able to study law in London, there is still racial friction between blacks and whites. However, the friction is not enough to keep Ruth away from this handsome man who shares her love for jazz and dancing.
But before they can truly fall for one another Seretse must reveal who he really is, which is none other than the heir to the chiefdom of his home, Bechuanaland. Not only that, but he has been summoned home to take over for his uncle “Tshekedi Khama” (Vusi Kuneni), who has been ruling Bechuanaland in his absence. Despite his responsibilities, and knowing there will be sacrifices, Ruth does not hesitate. She continues to see Seretse, and when he finally proposes, the answer is easy for her. Leaving home to go with him to Africa means that they will get to be together, so she does not even pause to think; her answer is “yes”.
What does Ruth find in her new home? Culture shock, a strange new language, and being treated like a suspicious foreigner who only wants the title of Queen. Because of her choice of husband, Seretse’s family in Bechuanaland shun her just as much as her own family in London.
On the other hand, Seretse must fight his own battles to prove to his people that he is ready and willing to lead. Even though not everyone (including his uncle) can see past his white wife, Seretse does manage to gain the trust of some. What he does not realize, however, is that even though his tribe might back him, that does not mean England will allow him and Ruth to make, what they believe to be, a political mockery of the new idea of apartheid and of the United Kingdom. The men behind England’s political game of chess will stop at nothing to keep Seretse and Ruth away from each other, even if that means banishing him from Bechuanaland.
Films based on true stories can sometimes be the hardest ones to successfully make, because in many cases the filmmakers add drastic changes to the plot to appeal to a “general audience.” While it would be surprising if parts of the plot of A United Kingdom were not tampered with to make the story more theatrical, as a viewer I couldn’t care less because the filmmaking, story, and acting beautifully held their own while keeping the message of love and unity despite differences clear.
Watching Oyelowo and Pike fall in love as Seretse and Ruth, set the tone for the whole movie. You truly felt like you were paying witness to two people feeling the flutter of butterflies from the first meeting, liking one another, and then falling for each other. The performances were natural and honest, the chemistry between the actors apparent. In fact, the chemistry was so believable that I searched the Internet to find out whether the pair had or have a real-life romance. Turns out, Oyelowo has been married to Jessica Oyelowo (who co-stars as “Lady Lilly Canning” in the film) since 1998.
Another relationship that stood out was the one between Seretse and his Uncle. Their love and respect for one another despite any disagreements played towards the broader theme the film represents: acceptance for one’s beliefs is not always immediately received, but through persistence and setting of examples, we all have the power to change even the most stubborn of minds.
Ruth spends a lot of time proving herself to her home country of England, her adopted country of Bechuanaland, her family (both biological and marital), and also to herself. Ironically, her true strength reveals itself when circumstances force her to be unwillingly separated from her husband. The literal distance between them forces Ruth to go from a shy, timid Englishwoman to a Queen who is not afraid to stand up for her beliefs and her people. This notable transition proves that a powerful love story does not mean the woman has to play a damsel in distress who lacks her own voice.
Racial division is, of course, where almost all problems stem from in the film. The director, Amma Asante, balances this theme and the romantic storyline well by emphasizing the juxtaposition of Ruth and Seretse in private, against their public lives. There is also a stark contrast between shots in England and Africa. Asante makes England look dark and mysterious; the English actors overly formal and stiff compared to the scenes in Bechuanaland where there is a unity among the people that feels unparalleled.
What is the purpose of film if not to affect its audience? Falling in love with Ruth and Seretse is easy as their characters are both real and endearing, their flaws making them that much more relatable. The difficult part of this film is the empathy and forgiveness that it asks the audience to have for those who would wish harm on the beloved couple.
A United Kingdom tells a beautiful and well thought out love story from the 1940’s while still being relevant for today’s time and audience. Superb acting, visually appealing shots, and also a lovely notion that even if we disagree in the beginning, that does not close all the doors to one day coming together side by side as members of the human species. Especially in today’s political atmosphere, I think we could all use a little hope and love.
© Elyse Bunt Thaler (02/20/17) FF2 Media
Top Photo: “Seretse” (David Oyelowo) and “Ruth” (Rosamund Pike) in love.
Middle Photo: The real Seretse and Ruth overlooking Bechuanaland.
Bottom Photo: Ruth, Seretse, and their first child (daughter Jacqueline) home at last in Bechuanaland.
Photo Credits: Andreas Burgess
Q: Does A United Kingdom pass the Bechdel-Wallace Test?
Yes!
Ruth has multiple scenes with Seretse’s sister “Naledi Khama” (Terry Pheto). At first Naledi does not believe Ruth belongs in Africa, but over time, they become allies.
On the other hand, “Lady Lilly Canning” (Jessica Oyelowo), who is the wife of British government’s representative in Southern Africa, purports to be Ruth’s ally, but she clearly does not have Ruth’s best interests at heart.
Unlike most of my colleagues, I am not a big fan of Belle. So I went into A United Kingdom with an open mind and the best of intentions… but also a bit of cautious skepticism. Two hours later, however, I was completely won over!
The first act is a bit of a stretch. Much as I love Rosamund Pike — and I do! — she seemed a bit too old to play “Ruth,” and that was a distraction. However, as Ruth aged in act two, Pike came into her own, and by act three she had become a commanding presence, fully believable and triumphant in the role.
There are no false notes in the telling of this tale. I do not know how closely it adheres to the facts of the matter, but I never experienced any cognitive dissonance — as I often did in Belle. The narrative is engaging and the period details all feel just right.
I came out of A United Kingdom fully convinced that this man — Prince Seretse Khama — was able to transcend the racial and gender prejudices of his time precisely because he had this woman — Ruth Williams — at his side as both wife and partner.
According to Wikipedia, Seretse Khama renounced his tribal rights (just as A United Kingdom shows) and became the politician who helped to transform the people of Bechuanaland into the nation of Botswana. When independence was granted in 1966, Seretse became Botswana’s first president. He served four consecutive terms, and died in office in 1980.
Ruth Williams Khama and Seretse Khama had four children (one daughter and three sons). Two of their sons were also elected to the presidency by the people of Botswana. Ruth remained in Botswana after Seretse’s death in office in 1980, receiving recognition in her own right as “Mohumagadi Mma Kgosi” (mother of the chief, or queen mother). When she died at the age of 78, Ruth was buried in Botswana next to Seretse.
I am truly grateful to Amma Asante (and screenwriter Guy Hibbert) for bringing this important story to the screen, graced, as it is, by two excellent performances from David Oyelowo and Rosamund Pike. Brava! (JLH: 4/5)
© Jan Lisa Huttner (02/27/17) FF2 Media
Hi there, I enjoy reading all of your article post. I like to write a little comment to support you.
Hi, after reading this awesome paragraph i am also glad to share my know-how here
with colleagues.
At this time I am going to do my breakfast, once having my breakfast
coming again to read further news.
Hey there just wanted to give you a quick heads up. The
text in your article seem to be running off the
screen in Safari. I’m not sure if this is a formatting issue or something to do with internet browser compatibility but I figured I’d
post to let you know. The style and design look great though!
Hope you get the issue fixed soon. Thanks
My partner and I stumbled over here from a different web page and thought I might check things out.
I like what I see so i am just following you. Look forward
to looking into your web page for a second time.
Thanks for one’s marvelous posting! I actually enjoyed reading it, you
can be a great author. I will ensure that I bookmark your blog and
will eventually come back in the future. I want to
encourage continue your great work, have a nice morning!
It’s really a great and helpful piece of info. I’m glad that you shared this helpful info with us.
Please keep us informed like this. Thanks for sharing.
The cash alternative will give the winner a a single-time lump
sum payment equal to the value oof the prize pool.
My blog post: Visit this link
I’ve been surfing online more than three hours today, yet
I never found any interesting article like yours. It is pretty worth enough for me.
In my opinion, if all website owners and bloggers made good
content as you did, the web will be a lot more useful than ever before.
Hello, after reading this awesome article i am as well cheerful to share my knowledge here with friends.
Good day! I know this is somewhat off topic but I was wondering which blog
platform are you using for this site? I’m getting sick and tired of WordPress because I’ve had issues
with hackers and I’m looking at options for another platform.
I would be fantastic if you could point me in the direction of a good platform.
I got this web site from my buddy who told me regarding this
web site and at the moment this time I am visiting this site and reading
very informative articles here.
I pay a quick visit everyday a few web sites and blogs to read articles, but this webpage presents quality
based content.
Every weekend i used to visit this web site, because i want enjoyment, for the reason that this this website
conations actually pleasant funny data too.
I was very pleased to uncover this website. I want to to thank
you for your time due to this wonderful read!!
I definitely liked every part of it and I have you
saved as a favorite to look at new stuff on your blog.
I really like it whenever people get together and share opinions.
Great site, keep it up!
I got this web site from my friend who told me regarding this web site and now this time I am visiting this website and reading very informative content at this place.
I like the valuable information you provide in your articles.
I’ll bookmark your weblog and check again here frequently.
I’m quite certain I’ll learn a lot of new stuff right here!
Best of luck for the next!
We stumbled over here by a different page and thought I might as
well check things out. I like what I see so now i’m following you.
Look forward to looking at your web page repeatedly.
Can I just say what a relief to find somebody who genuinely understands
what they are discussing on the net. You actually realize how to bring an issue
to light and make it important. A lot more people really need
to look at this and understand this side of the story. I was surprised you’re not more popular since you most certainly have the gift.
I constantly spent my half an hour to read this blog’s articles everyday along with a cup of
coffee.
whoah this weblog is excellent i love reading your posts.
Keep up the great work! You recognize, many individuals
are searching round for this information, you can help them greatly.
Have a look at my web-site – https://pokerpulsa388.xyz/
Hi there! I could have sworn I’ve been to this site before but after browsing through many of the articles I realized
it’s new to me. Anyhow, I’m certainly delighted
I discovered it and I’ll be book-marking it and
checking back often!
Way cool! Some extremely valid points! I appreciate you writing this post and also the
rest of the website is very good.
Wow that was odd. I just wrote an really long comment but after
I clicked submit my comment didn’t appear. Grrrr…
well I’m not writing all that over again. Anyways, just wanted to say superb blog!
Way cool! Some extremely valid points! I appreciate you writing this post plus the rest of
the website is very good.
I’ve read some just right stuff here. Definitely value bookmarking for revisiting.
I wonder how so much attempt you set to make any such wonderful informative web site.
Way cool! Some very valid points! I appreciate you writing this
article plus the rest of the website is also very good.
whoah this weblog is wonderful i love studying your articles.
Keep up the great work! You know, many persons are hunting around for this information, you can aid them greatly.
Good post. I learn something new and challenging on websites I stumbleupon every day.
It’s always helpful to read articles from other writers and use
something from their sites.
Thanks for finally talking about > A UNITED
KINGDOM (2016): Review by Elyse Thaler – FF2 Media
< Liked it!
Have you ever thought about publishing an ebook or guest authoring on other websites?
I have a blog based upon on the same ideas you discuss and would really
like to have you share some stories/information. I know my visitors would appreciate your work.
If you are even remotely interested, feel free to shoot
me an e mail.
What’s up, all is going fine here and ofcourse every one is sharing information,
that’s in fact fine, keep up writing.
I got this website from my pal who shared with me on the topic of this
website and at the moment this time I am browsing this site and reading very informative posts at this place.
hey there and thank you for your info – I have
definitely picked up something new from right here.
I did however expertise a few technical points using this web site, as I
experienced to reload the web site a lot of times previous to I could get it to load correctly.
I had been wondering if your hosting is OK?
Not that I am complaining, but slow loading instances times will sometimes
affect your placement in google and could damage your high quality score if ads and marketing
with Adwords. Well I am adding this RSS to my email and could look out for a lot more of your respective fascinating content.
Ensure that you update this again soon.
Good article. I definitely appreciate this site.
Stick with it!
This blog was… how do I say it? Relevant!! Finally I’ve found something that helped
me. Cheers!
ILottery Account Structure, Deposit Insurance –
The funds in your iLottery Account wil be held separate from the
funds of the Rhode Island Lottery.
my page – Additional info
– A increasing college senior and a increasing high college sophomore are
the final winners of North Carolina’s COVID-19 vaccination lottery.
my webb site :: Click here for info
Hmm it seems like your site ate my first comment (it was
extremely long) so I guess I’ll just sum it up what I wrote and
say, I’m thoroughly enjoying your blog. I too am an aspiring blog blogger
but I’m still new to everything. Do you have any tips for newbie blog writers?
I’d definitely appreciate it.
Hi there! Do you know if they make any plugins to assist with Search Engine Optimization? I’m trying to get
my blog to rank for some targeted keywords but I’m not seeing
very good success. If you know of any please share.
Many thanks!
Taxes aside, you’ll probably quibble with thee pretax price of return on thee Powerball annuity.
Also visit myy homepage … Get more information
Everyone who buys a winning ticket has 180 days to
come forward and claim their prize.
my website Learn more
The next drawing is March 31, 2021, with an estimated jackpot
of $20 million and a cash worth of $13.six million.
Here is myy blog post: read more
Of the biggest jackpots of all time in the US, that one particular ranked 5th.
Feel free to surf to mmy web site – Click here!
Hurrah, that’s what I was looking for, what a stuff!
present hhere at this webpage, thanks admin of this site.
my web pge :: Cam4 France homepage
What’s up to every single one, it’s genuinely a fastidious for mee to visit this website, it
includes valuable Information.
Look at my blog post: Chaturbate
Heey there! I could have sworn I’ve been to this
blog before but aftter browsing through some of the post I realized
it’s new to me. Anyhow, I’m definitely delighted I found it and I’ll
be book-marking and checking back often!
Also visit my web page: chaturbate.lol
Excellent article. Keep writing such kind of information on your page.
Im really impressed by your blog.
Hi there, You’ve done a fantastic job. I’ll definitely digg it and
for mmy part suggest to my friends. I amm sure
they will be benefited frlm this site.
Here is my blog post sex video
I have read so many articles regarding thee blogger lovers but this paragraph is really a good
piece of writing, keep it up.
Feel free to visit my web page: all about live sex
Thanks very interesting blog!
my webpage: enjoy Cam4 France
Hmm is anyone else experiencing problems with the images
on this blog loading? I’m trying to figure out if its a problem on my end or if it’s the blog.
Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.
My blog post :: godmotherproject.com
Hi there to all, how is the whole thing, I think every
one is getting more from this website, and your
views are pleasant for new people.
Look into my web blog; Chaturbate
Peculiar article, totally what I wanted to find.
Check out my page: xxx video
Wonderful blog! I found it while browsing on Yahoo News.
Do you have anyy suggestions onn how to get listed in Yahoo News?
I’ve been trying for a while but I never seem to get there!
Many thanks
Feel free to surf to my page – extraordinary live sex
Amazing! This blog looks exactly like my old one! It’s on a totally different subject but it
has pretty much the same page layout and design.
Outstanding choice of colors!
Today, while I was at work, my sister stole my iphone and tested to
see if it can survive a 30 foot drop, just so she can be a
youtube sensation. My iPad is now broken and she has 83 views.
I know this is entirely off topic but I had to share it with someone!
Nice post. I learn something new and challenging on sites I stumbleupon on a daily basis.
It will always be exciting to read through content from other authors and
use a little something from their web sites.
Just want to say your article is as astonishing. The clarity in your put up is simply spectacular and i
can think you’re a professional on this subject. Fine with your permission let me to
take hold of your RSS feed to keep up to date with impending post.
Thank you a million and please carry on the enjoyable work.
Please let me know if you’re looking for a article author for your site.
You have some really good articles and I think I would be a good asset.
If you ever want to take some of the load off, I’d really like to write some material for your
blog in exchange for a link back to mine. Please blast me an e-mail if interested.
Many thanks!
Hi, I do think this is an excellent website. I stumbledupon it 😉 I may
come back once again since i have book marked it.
Money and freedom is the best way to change, may you be rich and continue to guide other people.
We stumbled over here different page and thought I might check things out.
I like what I see so i am just following you.
Look forward to looking over your web page yet again.