THE ASTOR REVIEW

From acclaimed director Michael Apted comes a moving historical epic about the life of anti-slavery pioneer, William Wilberforce, who together with his fellow humanitarians, made the issue of slavery a talking point, not only in political circles, but also throughout the country. They waged the first modern political campaign.

IMDB SYNOPSIS

In 1797, William Wilberforce, the great crusader for the British abolition of slavery, is taking a vacation for his health even while he is sicker at heart for his frustrated cause. However, meeting the charming Barbara Spooner, Wilberforce finds a soulmate to share the story of his struggle. With few allies such as his mentor, John Newton, a slave ship captain turned repentant priest who penned the great hymn, Amazing Grace, Prime William Pitt, and Olaudah Equiano, the erudite former slave turned author, Wilberforce fruitlessly fights both public indifference and moneyed opposition determined to keep their exploitation safe. Nevertheless, Wilberforce finds the inspiration in newfound love to rejuvenate the fight with new ideas that would lead to a great victory for social justice.