The Butler Starring Forest Whitaker, Oprah Winfrey, directed by Lee Daniels.

This historical drama depicts the story of Cecil Gaines (Whitaker)’s 34-year career working as head butler at the White House. Beginning his tenure under President Eisenhower (Robin Williams), Cecil would see another seven presidents come and go throughout his career and was present at the highest level of the state during some of the most tumultuous periods in the 20th century including the American Civil Rights Movement and the Vietnam War. The ensemble cast includes John Cusack, James Marsden, Live Schreiber and Alan Rickman.

I understand that there have been a multitude of great films out there this last year, but why Oprah didn’t get a supporting actress Oscar nomination for this role is an injustice. Yes, Forest is great and the story sound, but for mu money, even seeing this on a plane small screen, Oprah’s work was astonishingly good.

Verdict: A sound and solid film with great performances from the whole star cast. ****

This film will be shown at The Harbour Club, Portscatho on Monday 10th March.