Based on the remarkable true story of former president of Botswana Seretse Khama and his wife Ruth Williams, A United Kingdom stars David Oyelowo (Selma) and Rosamund Pike (Gone Girl) as the couple and includes, much to our delight, a supporting role by UK comedy icon Nicholas Lyndhurst (Only Fools and Horses).
Capturing the atmosphere of 1940s London in authentic detail, Director Amma Asante (Belle) portrays the foggy weather, cobbled streets and racist abuse in pacey style; guiding viewers through the Khama and Williams' dates through to an emotional marriage proposal before they prepared for a tumultuous move to southern Africa.
A touching story of love in adversity, Asante included historical and political context in an entertaining (albeit heart-wrenching) way; giving a little-known insight into the shocking part played by former Prime Minister Winston Churchill in the couple's fight to live together in peace. The dark, profit-fuelled colonial undertones at work in England and Africa bring added depth to the struggles both families faced after the Khama marriage.
The rallying support from selected members of Parliament and the English public given to the Khamas was a highlight of the film, showing a seldom-seen display of unity among black and white Londoners in the 1940s and 50s.
All in all, A United Kingdom is a warming, yet serious tale with a very important message about how much we take for granted in this racially-integrated age.
A United Kingdom is on general UK release from 25 November 2016.