Drama explores changing times
Photos courtesy of Handmade Distribution
Did you know
The Butler also features cameos by pop stars Mariah Carey and Lenny Kravitz.
Set against the tumultuous political backdrop of 20th century America, The Butler is an epic drama directed by Lee Daniels.
The film is about a fictional White House butler named Cecil Gaines (Forest Whitaker), who serves during seven presidential administrations from 1957 to 1986.
The film begins in 1926 and follows a young Cecil as he escapes the tyranny of the fiercely segregated South in search of a better life. Along his arduous journey to manhood, Cecil learns invaluable skills that ultimately lead to an opportunity to work at the White House.
There, Cecil becomes a firsthand witness to history and the inner workings of the Oval Office. At home, his loving wife Gloria (Oprah Winfrey) raises their two sons, and the family benefits from their comfortable middle-class existence.
However, Cecil’s work commitments create tensions at home, alienating Gloria and creating conflict with his rebellious son, Louis (David Oyelowo).
Catch the epic historical drama when The Butler opens in local cinemas on October 10.
Vocabulary
- tumultuous (adj): involving a lot of change and confusion
tyranny (n): unfair or cruel use of power or authority
segregate (v): to separate people of different races, religions or sexes and treat them differently
arduous (adj): involving a lot of effort and energy
rebellious (adj): opposed to the government of a country or to those in authority
