Think you know about George Washington? The Young Washington movie presents the remarkable untold story.
Movie Review Young Washington
Having lost his father at a young age George Washington (William Franklyn-Miller) must forgo school and “do what duty demands” to look after the family. His much older half-brother tends to his education with copious books, teachings about how to be a gentleman and chess games which show him that “even a pawn can take a king”.
While his lack of formal education and land ownership stop him from joining the British army, his brashness has him suggesting to Lord Fairfax (Kelsey Grammer) that he can be of benefit by surveying the unchartered territory of Ohio. Fairfax reluctantly agrees.
While out surveying the area Washington sees the French army on the outskirts of land and reports back to Fairfax. Being the only one with knowledge of the area he is soon told to take an army of militia to “request” the French leave. When this mission fails spectacularly, he could blame others but instead sticks to the notions that “to lead is to forfeit the right to excuses”, that “the imitation of great men does not make you one” and that “stubbornness leads to ruin” and “failure is a great teacher”.
Swallowing his pride, he joins the rank and file when the British Army takes over to do the job properly. But fate soon steps in. General Braddock (Andy Serkis) is fatally wounded and as he lies dying, he hands the baton onto Washington and the rest as they say is history.
As the final music played, I pondered:
- The movie is an interesting exploration of ego, failure, resilience, courage and ultimately what makes a good leader;
- Before watching the movie I had little knowledge or interest in how the USA became known by that name, now when I hear it I can’t think of anything else:
- Great to see Ben Kinglsey, Andy Serkis and Mary Louise Parker on screen again;
- Franklyn-Miller does a good job but it is easy to get distracted by his face, which is definitely made for the big screen;
- Some parts of the fighting scenes feel farfetched and yet the end of the movie explains that his is part of the Washington legend, that “those who walk in destiny are protected”.
