The true story of a love that shook an empire|Nov. 25, 2016|Czechia | United Kingdom | France | United States|111 Min.|PG-13
Genre: Drama;History
Description: **A United Kingdom (2016) – Full Movie Summary**
The film tells the true story of Seretse Khama, the heir to the throne of Bechuanaland, who studies law in London after World War II. While there, he meets and falls in love with Ruth Williams, an Englishwoman, and they decide to marry. Their union faces fierce opposition from both their families, the British government, and neighboring nations like South Africa. The South African government, then ruled by the National Party, fears that the interracial marriage in Bechuanaland could inspire unrest, as they were in the process of banning such unions. South Africa, along with South West Africa and Rhodesia, pressures Britain to intervene and prevent the marriage.
Seretse’s uncle, the Regent, urges him to end the marriage and wed a Bamangwato princess instead, but Seretse refuses. British administrators exploit the situation, claiming the marriage is stirring instability. Meanwhile, Seretse learns that the British have permitted a U.S. mining corporation to search for precious stones in Bechuanaland. Determined to protect his country’s resources, he insists that any exploitation should benefit the people of Bechuanaland alone.
Despite facing exile imposed by the British government, Seretse gains the support of his people. Meanwhile, Ruth, who gives birth to their child, earns the acceptance of the local community by actively participating in their lives. When the British attempt to replace Seretse with an administrator, the tribe refuses to cooperate. British Prime Minister Clement Attlee acknowledges that the country’s reliance on South Africa’s gold makes the Khamas’ marital sacrifice a necessary cost.
The discovery of diamonds in Bechuanaland becomes a turning point. Seretse ensures that the British government recognizes the Bechuana people’s sovereign rights over these valuable resources. The story highlights themes of love, resilience, and the fight for justice against political and racial adversity.
Cast director: Amma Asante
Cast actor: David Oyelowo, Rosamund Pike, Tom Felton, Jack Davenport, Terry Pheto, Laura Carmichael, Jessica Oyelowo, Vusi Kunene, Nicholas Lyndhurst, Arnold Oceng
Original name: A United Kingdom