Amistad (1997)

This film tells a story that should be taught in history classes but isn't. In fact, despite my history minor (though I did take more European history classes), I hadn't even heard or remembered mention of this trial until watching this film.
A small ship of African slaves upraises and kills the Spanish sailors, save the captain and one other. They intend to return to their native Africa, but somehow manage to end up in Connecticut, where they are instantly arrested and put on trial. However, the question is not whether they are guilty of murder, but whether they are property of Spain, America, lost treasure (aka finder's keepers) or Africa.
They are literally on trial for their lives and none even understand the English language. But young lawyer, Roger Baldwin (Matthew McConaghey) is determined to win, though he isn't a criminal attorney.
Just when you think the film is over, an appeal is presented so the film continues for another half an hour and gives Anthony Hopkins (as forgotten former President John Quincy Adams) enough screen time to earn his supporting Oscar nomination. Though it is 1840, the Supreme Court (despite being majority slave owners), they side with Roger and believe that they have enough evidence to prove the men were African natives and thus should be free. And yet, the Civil War would not start for another two decades.
The film belongs to Djimon Hounson as the main African slave who is brilliant and commands the screen and forces you to pay attention though he says only three words in English. Also pay attention to a young Chiwetel Ejiofor who serves as the ever important translator, someone finally able to understand and speak both languages, which proves to be ever vital for the case.
Now, the film is pretty good, though not as good as some of Spielberg's other works, and some scenes are beyond excellent, it still falls just short of being a truly great film, perhaps the somewhat odd scenes with teenage Queen Isabella II of Spain (a wasted Anna Pacquin) and Morgan Freeman's largely unnecessary role are what drag the film down. And it is a shame that Freeman's role is extra, when it should have been something more. Nevertheless, this film is necessary for all to watch. Grade: A-
Side Notes:
-The political system was certainly rigged in 1839.
-Both American Presidents are portrayed by British actors. New Yorker Martin van Buren is Nigel Hawthorne, who doesn't win re-election.
-John Quincy Adams loves his flowers.
-Apparently, being Catholic was a bad thing back then as well.