- TV
Based on the memoirs of Nelson Mandela's prison guard, this drama tells the story of James Gregory (Fiennes), a typical...
Based on the memoirs of Nelson Mandela's prison guard, this drama tells the story of James Gregory (Fiennes), a typical white Afrikaaner whose ability to speak Xhosa makes him an ideal choice to become the warden in charge of 'terrorist' Mandela (Haysbert).
Through his two decade relationship with Mandela, however, Gregory's allegiance gradually shifts from the racist government to the struggle for a free South Africa.
Through his two decade relationship with Mandela, however, Gregory's allegiance gradually shifts from the racist government to the struggle for a free South Africa.
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44 %18 reviewsRotten Tomatoes® rating
55 %4,021 reviewsAudience score rating
"The life of a prison guard is dull, no matter who is in the cell. Director Bille August makes what he can of this material, always holding our interest but never fulfilling the promise of a close encounter with one of the 20th century's most controversial leaders."
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Seattle Post-Intelligencer
Seattle Post-Intelligencer"Fascinating story about Nelson Mandela's prison years is too drawn-out to engage."
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New Zealand Herald
New Zealand Herald"Interesting story and OK performances but this takes a little time to warm up."
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Empire Magazine
Empire Magazine"In the role of Mandela, Dennis Haysbert has an overwhelming task. Although he has no problem conveying the dignity with which Mandela carries himself, the sketchy script offers him no way of getting under his skin. Instead Mandela is reduced to a background prop as Gregory launches a quest to educate himself on the principles of egalitarianism after years of being drip-fed Apartheid propaganda."
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BBC
BBCGoodbye Bafana | Details
- Runtime
- 118
- Genre
- Drama
- Country of origin
- South Africa
