Invictus
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.
Critics Sentiment
Joel Stransky kicks drop goal to win World Cup for South Africa
South Africans doubt rugby can unite the divided nation
The film builds from the skeptical preparation phase to the triumphant World Cup final, with sentiment rising dramatically from doubt about unity through sport to the euphoric victory celebration
Invictus follows a classic inspirational sports arc, starting strong with Mandela's release and election, dipping during slower preparation sequences, then building powerfully through the tournament to an emotionally satisfying climax. While critics appreciated Freeman's performance and the film's thematic ambitions, many found the middle section conventional and lacking dramatic tension before the rousing sports finale delivered the expected emotional payoff.
Full cast
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Morgan Freeman
Nelson Mandela
Matt Damon
Francois Pienaar
Tony Kgoroge
Jason Tshabalala
Patrick Mofokeng
Linga Moonsamy
Matt Stern
Hendrick Booyens
Julian Lewis Jones
Etienne Feyder
Adjoa Andoh
Brenda Mazibuko
Marguerite Wheatley
Nerine
Leleti Khumalo
Mary
Patrick Lyster
Mr. Pienaar
Penny Downie
Mrs. Pienaar
Sibongile Nojila
Eunice
Bonnie Mbuli
Zindzi
Shakes Myeko
Minister of Sport
Louis Minnaar
Springbok Coach
Danny Keogh
Rugby President
Dan Robbertse
Boer
Robin Smith
Johan De Villiers
David Dukas
Captain of 747
Grant Swanby
Co-Captain of 747
Crew
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