KINORAFIELD GUIDE TO FILM
2013 · 134 min · R

12 Years a Slave

Directed by Steve McQueen · Drama, History

12 Years a Slave (2013) is a Drama film, directed by Steve McQueen set in New York City, New Orleans, and Louisiana during the 1800s. It runs 134 minutes and is rated R.

A biopic, with a bleak tone. Themes of freedom & oppression, survival, and identity play out through frame narrative.

Composer
Hans Zimmer
Cinematography
Sean Bobbitt
Cast
Chiwetel EjioforMichael FassbenderLupita Nyong'oBenedict CumberbatchPaul DanoSarah PaulsonAdepero OduyeScoot McNairy

The world of this film

Setting

Where
New York CityNew OrleansLouisiana
Setting
Rural
When
1800s

Premise & themes

Premise
Biopic
Themes
Freedom & OppressionSurvivalIdentity
Structure
Frame Narrative
Tone
Bleak

Shape

Protagonist
Solo Lead
Pacing
Measured
Based on
True Story

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