The life and early work of 18th-century abolitionist William Wilberforce is laid bare in this handsome biopic from director Michael Apted. Produced to coincide with the 200th anniversary of Britain's outlawing of the slave trade, it stars an impressive Ioan Gruffudd as the Hull-born reformer who combined his rising political career with deep religious beliefs to try to persuade Parliament to abolish the lucrative industry. However, instead of a preachy history lesson, this absorbing drama crackles with energy and wit. The long battle is depicted as a intergenerational struggle, as young Wilberforce and his fellow humanitarians (including Rufus Sewell as Thomas Clarkson) lock horns with the opposing established order, led by the venomous Duke of Clarence (Toby Jones) and Lord Tarleton (Ciaran Hinds). The acting is exemplary and, together with a dynamic script, vividly re-creates our nation's past. But in visually shying away from slavery's more horrific realities, the film undermines its impact and ultimately lacks the power its emotive subject matter really deserves.

The true story of William Wilberforce and his courageous quest to end the British slave trade. Along the way, Wilberforce meets intense opposition, but his minister urges him to see the cause through.