Capturing Idi Amin

Watch Capturing Idi Amin

  • 2006
  • 28 min
  • 6.7  (13)

Capturing Idi Amin is a 2006 historical drama film centered around the political regime of the notorious Ugandan dictator Idi Amin Dada. The movie details the story of a Scottish doctor named Nicholas Garrigan, played by James McAvoy, who travels to Uganda in 1971 to work in a missionary hospital. Garrigan's life takes a dramatic turn as he meets Idi Amin, played by Forest Whitaker, who takes a keen interest in him and soon appoints him as his personal physician.

The movie is beautifully shot and captures the vibrant African landscapes as well as the chaotic, violent political climate of Uganda during the 1970s. The story is set against the backdrop of the tension and intrigue that characterized the relationship between Uganda and Western powers like Great Britain and the United States.

As the movie progresses, Garrigan finds himself immersed in the world of Amin and the ruling elite, experiencing the excesses of power, wealth, and corruption that were rampant in the military junta regime. He is forced to witness and sometimes even participate in brutal acts of violence and human rights abuses, which gradually inform his moral consciousness and make him question the very basis of his loyalty to Amin.

The film is also a love story, as Garrigan lands in a romantic relationship with the young and beautiful Kay Amin, played by Kerry Washington. This subplot unfolds against the backdrop of the escalating political tensions and the increasing instability of the regime.

The movie is anchored by Forest Whitaker's stellar performance as Idi Amin. Whitaker masterfully portrays the contradictions and complexities of Amin's character, presenting him as an astute politician, a charismatic leader, and a brutal dictator all at once. He captures the nuances of Amin's psyche, including his paranoia, his arrogance, and his fathomless capacity for violence.

The other actors in the movie also deliver outstanding performances. James McAvoy gives a nuanced portrayal of Garrigan, showing his trajectory from a naive, self-centered young man to a mature, thoughtful doctor who is capable of changing course and standing up for his principles. Kerry Washington is also impressive as Kay Amin, bringing depth and subtlety to her character and highlighting the desperation and vulnerability of her position as a woman in a male-dominated political landscape.

Ultimately, Capturing Idi Amin is a gripping and thought-provoking film that provides a window into one of the most complex and controversial political figures in African history. The movie raises important questions about the nature of power and corruption, the role of the West in African politics, and the human toll of dictatorship and authoritarianism. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of not just capturing history but also of confronting it in all its complexity.

Capturing Idi Amin is a 2006 documentary with a runtime of 28 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.7.

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Where to Watch Capturing Idi Amin
Capturing Idi Amin is available to watch, stream, download and buy on demand at Amazon. Some platforms allow you to rent Capturing Idi Amin for a limited time or purchase the movie and download it to your device.
  • Release Date
    2006
  • Runtime
    28 min
  • IMDB Rating
    6.7  (13)