Kristen Bell, known for her roles in beloved comedies, recently revealed that one of her favorite films is the troubling historical drama, The Last King of Scotland. Bell describes the 2006 film, which delves into the brutal dictatorship of Ugandan President Idi Amin, as “furiously disturbing.” Among her other favorites, which include lighter fare like When Harry Met Sally and National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, this film stands out for its intense subject matter and powerful performances.
In a discussion with Rotten Tomatoes, Bell expressed her admiration for the film, despite its dark themes. “I really like The Last King of Scotland if I’m in a dramatic mood, because it was so furiously disturbing,” she stated. However, she also admitted that the heavy topic sends her into “a real dark place,” echoing a sentiment many share after watching difficult films that portray human suffering and oppression.
The movie, which earned Forest Whitaker an Academy Award for Best Actor, tells a fictionalized story centered around a Scottish doctor, Dr. Garrigan, played by James McAvoy. While this creative choice provides an engaging narrative, it has drawn criticism for focusing on a white character’s experiences rather than delving deeper into the lives of the Ugandan people during a tumultuous time in their history. Critics argue that framing such a significant historical event through the lens of a fictional Westerner ultimately diminishes the real struggles of those it aims to represent.
This portrayal raises important questions about representation in film, particularly when tackling sensitive historical subjects. The complexities of the Ugandan political landscape under Amin’s regime deserve thorough exploration without overshadowing the voices of the local populace. Notably, academic Mahmood Mamdani, who has recently published a new book titled Slow Poison, emphasizes the significance of understanding these historical narratives from an authentic perspective.
For viewers intrigued by the real intricacies of Uganda’s past, Mamdani’s work provides valuable insight that many feel is lacking in The Last King of Scotland. However, for those who seek a powerful performance and an emotional journey, Bell’s suggestion to revisit the film remains poignant, illustrating the compelling nature of storytelling—even when it may lead audiences to reflect on harrowing realities.