Backdrop preview Invictus backdrop
Invictus

Invictus (2009)

Dec 11, 2009 2h 14m Drama History

Newly elected President Nelson Mandela knows his nation remains racially and economically divided in the wake of apartheid. Believing he can bring his people together through the universal language of sport, Mandela rallies South Africa's rugby union team as they make their historic run to the 1995 Rugby World Cup Championship match.

Watch Trailer
Directed by Clint Eastwood

Cast

View All

Crew

Director
  • Clint Eastwood
Producer
  • Lori McCreary
  • Robert Lorenz
  • Mace Neufeld
  • Clint Eastwood

Reviews

Shreyance Parakh
10/10

**It's much more than JUST rugby**

Though the movie doesn't give much insights into the life of the living legend(still breathing among us when I saw this movie) known as **NELSON MANDELA**, it sure tells us a lot about what the man is made of.That **we are the master of our fate, we are the captain of our soul**.

Forgiveness is a mighty powerful weapon that can make or break nations.How a sport can unite a divided nation into ONE, it is a well known fact but to actually be able to do that in a country like SOUTH Africa,at a time when it was ready to rise from the ashes or to fall into its own crevices lying beneath the surface and ready to torn apart the whole nation again into TWO,is what gives me INSPIRATION to rise whenever i'll fall...

The entire cast is brilliant without going overboard in situations that could've been intense.A truly inspiring movie that can be imprinted in your heart for the rest of your lives if you're **ready to FORGIVE people and make this world a better place to live in!**

May 4, 2017

r96sk
7/10

A little bit hit-and-miss, though <em>'Invictus'</em> still manages to produce the requirements for a solid sports drama.

Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon are two actors I enjoy a lot, but by the end of this 2009 film I was a tad underwhelmed by them. Freeman as Nelson Mandela sounds great on paper, but in reality you kinda lose what makes Freeman so great - his voice, given he has to act with a South African accent. He still does a good job nevertheless, I just don't think I'll remember this particular portrayal of Mandela - unlike Idris Elba's attempt in 2013's <em>'<a href="https://letterboxd.com/film/mandela-long-walk-to-freedom/" rel="nofollow">Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom'</em>.

The merging of the two plot points - politics and rugby union - is done well, though the former is easily more interesting than the latter... and I say that as someone who loves sport and dislikes politics!

It's one that is worth a watch, it just didn't give me anything to remember.

Feb 11, 2022

Sign in to leave a review.

Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Invictus examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Clint Eastwood brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2009, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Invictus took approximately 22 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • With a budget of $60.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 134 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 160 minutes long.
  • The film contains approximately 2335 individual shots.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 3 months to complete.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.

Historical Context

  • In 2009, when this film is released:
  • Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
  • The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
  • Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.

How This Film Stands Out

While Invictus shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Ero in guerra ma non lo sapevo, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Invictus subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Loving Pablo and The Miracle Season explore similar territory, Invictus stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: December 11, 2009
  • Runtime: 2h 14m
  • Budget: $60,000,000
  • Revenue: $122,400,000

Where to Watch

Max
Max Amazon Channel