While the king of Botswana (David Oyelowo) is being educated in England, he falls for a white woman (Rosamund Pike). This is in the 40s, so you can imagine the outrage when they got married. The challenges mount when there are intense objections to his rule. The performances are convincing and the story interesting, but it unfolds with a relatively prosaic script and uninspired direction. It’s a fascinating history lesson and their romance is engaging. However, the storytelling lacks that passion or creativity to give it emotional heft.
(3 / 5)