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Apted's unexpected crowd-pleaser is inspirational, but also surprisingly entertaining.

As a period piece, it's remarkably detailed, smartly written, and likably acted.

A good -- and important -- story, not always well told.

While there is plenty to hold our interest in William Wilberforce's noble battle to abolish slavery in 18th Century Britain, as a film, Amazing Grace is overzealous and gets bogged down by details

Amazing Grace thoughtfully explores the issue of slavery without sermonizing or losing sight of the fact that modern audiences still need to connect with relatable characters no matter how important the subject matter.

Apted directs with a firm hand and the film has been gorgeously shot by Remi Adefarasin. The large cast is generally good, with Gruffudd serving as the strong anchor.

The whole thing feels a bit smug and complacent, as if having a worthwhile subject were the only requirement for making a worthwhile film, and Apted directs in a respectable "Masterpiece Theatre" style that effectively drains away any inherent drama.

the film, like its central character, is resolute in its objective. Perhaps too resolute.

Michael Apted channels history, but Grace is amazing for the modern sensibilities of its 18th-century saints.