12 Years a Slave (2013)
Steve McQueen's shattering historical drama recounts the true ordeal of Solomon Northup, a free man stripped of his freedom and sold into slavery.
12 Years a Slave - Movie Information
- Original Title: 12 Years a Slave
- Release Year: 2013
- Directed by: Steve McQueen
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama, History
- Age Rating (US): R
- Runtime: 2h 14m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): October 18, 2013 (Canada - 14A), November 8, 2013 (United States - R), January 10, 2014 (United Kingdom - 15), January 16, 2014 (Germany - 12), January 22, 2014 (France - 16), February 21, 2014 (India), February 6, 2014 (New Zealand), January 30, 2014 (Australia - MA15+), February 21, 2014 (Brazil - 14), February 21, 2014 (Mexico - C), January 23, 2014 (Italy - T), December 12, 2013 (Spain - 16), February 27, 2014 (South Korea - 15)
- Alternative Titles: それでも夜は明ける (JP), 为奴12年 (CN), 12 Años de Esclavitud (ES), 노예 12년 (KR), 12 години в робство (BG), دوازده سال بردگی (IR), 被奪走的十二年 (HK), 12 let v řetězech (CZ)
- Production Companies: New Regency Pictures, Plan B Entertainment, River Road Entertainment, Regency Enterprises, Film4 Productions
- Production Countries: United Kingdom, United States of America
12 Years a Slave - Plot
In the pre-Civil War United States, Solomon Northup, a free black man from upstate New York, is abducted and sold into slavery. Facing cruelty as well as unexpected kindnesses Solomon struggles not only to stay alive, but to retain his dignity. In the twelfth year of his unforgettable odyssey, Solomon's chance meeting with a Canadian abolitionist will forever alter his life.
12 Years a Slave - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and witness the power of Solomon Northup's story unfold:
The extraordinary true story of Solomon Northup.
Where to Watch 12 Years a Slave
Looking for where to watch 12 Years a Slave?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
12 Years a Slave - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Steve McQueen
Main Cast
- Chiwetel Ejiofor
- Michael Fassbender
- Lupita Nyong'o
- Benedict Cumberbatch
- Paul Dano
- Sarah Paulson
- Adepero Oduye
- Scoot McNairy
- Paul Giamatti
- Brad Pitt
Writers
- John Ridley
Producers
- Dede Gardner
- Bill Pohlad
- Arnon Milchan
- Anthony Katagas
- Jeremy Kleiner
12 Years a Slave - FAQs
Is 12 Years a Slave based on a true story?
Yes, 12 Years a Slave is based on the 1853 memoir of the same name by Solomon Northup, a free Black man from Saratoga Springs, New York. He was kidnapped in Washington, D.C. in 1841 and sold into slavery in Louisiana, enduring twelve years of captivity before regaining his freedom.
Where can you stream 12 Years a Slave?
12 Years a Slave is available to stream on Netflix and Hulu. It can also be rented or purchased on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. Check JustWatch for the most current availability in your region.
Did 12 Years a Slave win any awards?
12 Years a Slave won three Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director for Steve McQueen, and Best Adapted Screenplay for John Ridley. Lupita Nyong'o won Best Supporting Actress. The film also won the BAFTA Award for Best Film and numerous other major honors.
Who are the main actors in 12 Years a Slave?
The film stars Chiwetel Ejiofor as Solomon Northup, Michael Fassbender as the brutal plantation owner Edwin Epps, and Lupita Nyong'o as Patsey. The supporting cast includes Benedict Cumberbatch, Paul Dano, Sarah Paulson, Adepero Oduye, Paul Giamatti, and Brad Pitt.
What is 12 Years a Slave about?
The film follows Solomon Northup, a free Black man and accomplished violinist from New York, who is kidnapped and sold into slavery in the pre-Civil War South. Over twelve years he endures brutal conditions, fighting to preserve his identity and dignity until a chance encounter with a Canadian abolitionist changes everything.
What is the age rating for 12 Years a Slave?
12 Years a Slave is rated R in the United States for its unflinching depiction of violence, cruelty, and the brutal realities of slavery. It is rated 15 in the United Kingdom, 14A in Canada, and carries similar mature-audience classifications in most countries worldwide.
How long is 12 Years a Slave?
12 Years a Slave has a runtime of 2 hours and 14 minutes (134 minutes). Directed by Steve McQueen, the film maintains an unflinching pace throughout, immersing the viewer in Solomon Northup's twelve-year ordeal without sacrificing emotional or historical depth.
How was 12 Years a Slave received by critics?
12 Years a Slave received overwhelming critical acclaim, earning a 96% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics praised Steve McQueen's direction, Chiwetel Ejiofor's performance, and the film's unflinching honesty. It is widely regarded as one of the most important and powerful films of the 21st century.
More About 12 Years a Slave
Explore further details, cast information, and community reviews on these trusted resources.