Neil Bern's World

Good movies are a dime-a-dozen, but a truly great film comes every once in a while. I recently watched the movie AMAZING GRACE with some friends in Durham, North Carolina. The movie is about the true story of William Wilberforce - portrayed by Ioan Gruffudd (Fantastic Four) - a Member of the British Parliament who led the campaign for the abolition of the slave trade in 18th century Great Britain. In the film, Wilberforce is evidently influenced by John Newton, a former slaveship master who repented of his ways and became an Anglican minister, and is best known to have written the great Christian hymn Amazing Grace. Wilberforce sang the hymn early in the film to declare his faith and convictions before a group politicians who support the slave trade. He also sang the song in his wedding day.

Wilberforce demonstrated strong faith in God, as he at one time wanted to enter the ministry. He was torn between praising the Lord with his voice and speaking against the slave trade, until some people convinced him that he could do both. This led him to join the House of Commons to advocate for the abolishment of the slave trade. He became highly unpopular among members of parliament due to the fact that they had vested interests in the slave trade in key cities in the empire. With his advocacy falling on deaf ears, this resulted to decades of frustration and physical illness. But he persisted and found his faith strengthened all the more by the right people (his wife Barbara Spooner, and of course, John Newton). After decades of intense struggle, his persistence paid off. The House of Commons voted in favor of his bill that permanently abolished the slave trade in the British Empire.

This is a story of faith, persistence, conviction, hope, honor and the grace of God working for those who trust Him. It definitely moved me to tears. Ioan Gruffudd's performance was stellar. I can't wait for the DVD to come out so I can add it to my collection. This movie is a must-see! 5 stars!!!