Ruth Williams Khama (Rosamund Pike) and Sir Seretse Khama (David Oyelowo) view village with daughter.
A UNITED KINGDOM
Film Review by Marlene Ardoin
After World War II, racism and apartheid were a real part of the world view at that time. Sir Seretse Khama was raised as the son of an African chief in Serowe, in what was then the Bechuanaland Protectorate of Great Britain. This is something that is hard for Americans to wrap their heads around, but this is a true story.
The film, “A United Kingdom,” only scratches the surface of an amazing story. It only deals with the racism issue, but does not show us what happens next.
Sir Seretse Khama goes on to create a democracy and to gain independence for his homeland. In September 1966, Botswana gained its independence, with Khama acting as its first democratic President. He then transforms one of Africa’s poorest countries into one of the richest in Africa.
In 1944, Khama (David Oyelowo) was studying in Great Britain to become a barrister, when he is called home to Africa to rule, but not before he falls in love with an English woman named Ruth Williams (Rosamund Pike).
In “A United Kingdom” Khama demonstrates his philosophy and will. He is used to getting his way as a chief’s son, and will not consider giving up his new wife, just because her skin is a different color.
Winston Churchill is called out for going against his word after the war. Apparently, Great Britain did not want to give up the cheap materials, while recovering from the war. It was necessary to trick an African chief into exile.
What is not portrayed well enough in the film is the fact that Khama had to abdicate his kingdom in order to return home. And, the film does not show Khama trying to raise cattle unsuccessfully after he returns home.
Khama wants something better for his people than a kingdom. He wants independence from Britain. He wants a Democratic government. The real story is about how he makes all this happen.
The film only suggests that diamonds were discovered in Botswana. With Khama’s governing, Botswana develops trade worthy items like cattle, copper and diamonds.
Khama kept the taxes low, the trade high and used the profits to invest in infrastructure, hospitals and the education of his people.
The racial aspect of this film was only the beginning for me. Twenty years after Khama became their first President, his son became the fourth President of Botswana. This was the story I wanted to be told.
Biography of Seretse Khama:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seretse_Khama
The real Sir Seretse Khama and Ruth Williams Khama with their daughter and son.
Buys subscription to “Movies Of The Spirit”
3/18/2017 # A United Kingdom