This Oscar-baiting trot through the recent decades of American racial history through the eyes of a (frequently conveniently-fictionalised) true story of a White House butler certainly packs an historical an emotional punch. This is Daniels' most considered and controlled film so far, yet there are still moments when the directer resorts to melodrama that softens the impact of even the film's strongest scenes, not helped by an often generically twee music score. There are a number of great performances, including Oprah's character journey as the wife, and Gaines' son, but carrying it all is the towering Forest Whitaker, always a heartfelt and quiet (if underused) actor who here is superb in a performance of true dignity and sincerity. Even if at times too preachy and a rather blunt instrument, the relationships and issues on display make The Butler a strong - but not perfect - movie experience.
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