The Last King of Scotland

The Last King of Scotland is a film where the filmmaking and acting truly lift the story. The script, adapted from a novel I have not read, places a young Scottish doctor in the incredible position of being spokesperson for the ruthless General Idi Amin of Uganda. The relationship between the two men is so unlikely a lot of scenarios are far fetched excuses and rationalizations why this could happen. None of it is really believable. The subplot at the end and dramatic escape from Uganda lifts the material to pure melodrama. The film stinks as most historical films do that force white characters into a black historical situation. Of course I could be wrong and this story could be accurate, but my investigation said it was fiction. But the positives of this film is the filmmaking. Kevin Macdonald, a filmmaker I don't know at all, handles the realism with the expected use of hand held camera work. The credible thing is that he doesn't base the entire film on this. He mediates between good realism and professional camera set ups that use bring in different tones and textures. The variety of shots mixes well together with the story. The acting, much applauded, holds up well. Forest Whitaker does well to bring the General to life, but his character doesn't have the true depth. It is in Dr. Garrigan's character who has a full revolution from cocky hopeful to power mad political tyrant and all the way down to a broken down mess. James McAvoy impresses with charm and then with conviction.