Review: A United Kingdom

At the beginning of A United Kingdom, set in post-WWII London, Seretse Khama (David Oyelowo) is being recalled by his uncle (Vusi Kenene) back to his homeland of Bechuanaland Protectorate (later known as Botswana) to assume his rule as king of his kingdom. He has spent the last five years of his life studying law in London in preparation of this time - five years that, as his uncle reminds him, will help him advance his country and his people, who have been part of the British Empire since the 1880s.

His destiny and birthright are jeopardised by his instant and deep attraction to Ruth Williams (Rosamund Pike), with whom he locks eyes across the room at a London Mission Society mixer. It's not too long before he confesses his identity and his imminent departure, and it's not very much longer before he gets down on one knee and proposes, telling her that he will never achieve anything worthwhile in his country if he leaves his heart in London. Despite the troubles they are sure to have because they are a mixed race couple, she immediately accepts.

Predictably, her conservative father is displeased, refusing to see her until she breaks ties with Seretse. Seretse's uncle is just as incensed, reminding him of his duty to his people. More worryingly, their relationship has caught the ire of both the British and African governments, who regard the couple's marriage as a flagrant disregard for the political climate - namely, the fact that the policy of apartheid has recently been established in order to keep peace amongst the various countries within Africa.

Based on the book Colour Bar by Susan Williams, A United Kingdom is a compelling portrait of a real-life couple whose romance helped influence the outcome of their individual countries' histories as well as two people whose belief in their love made stronger as both a couple and as individuals. Director Amma Asante, whose previous work Belle also deftly examined sexism, racism and colonialism, once again demonstrates her skill with mixing the personal with the political, ably laying out the complicated bureaucratic maneuverings without losing sight of the people at the heart of the furore.

Asante's well-tempered handling also avoids any hoary sentimentality or emotional manipulations. Its moments, whether rousing or heartbreaking, are well-earned. The luminous Pike and magnetic Oyelowo both turn in superb performances. The former conveys Ruth's resilience and intelligence whilst the latter displays reserves of vulnerability and dignity.

A United Kingdom

Directed by: Amma Asante

Written by: Guy Hibbert; based on the book Colour Bar by Susan Williams

Starring: David Oyelowo, Rosamund Pike, Jack Davenport, Jack Lowden, Terry Pheto, Vusi Kunene, Tom Felton, Laura Carmichael