Mickel Clark
12 Years a Slave is an incredible true story film based on an autobiography narrated by Solomon Northup and written by David Wilson of the same name. Steve McQueen directed this incredible film with the assistance of John Riddle in the screenplay. Steve casts Chiwetel Ejiofor as Solomon Northup and some impressive supporting stars.
12 Years a Slave was released on February 7, 2014. Before this version, Sue Eakin and Joseph co-edited Wilson’s masterpiece in 1968. 12 Years a Slave is available on Netflix. Read more to find out how you can watch it.
Is 12 Years a Slave on Netflix?
The acclaimed movie 12 Years a Slave is currently restricted to only a handful of countries on Netflix, such as Greece. This can be quite frustrating for those living in regions where the film is unavailable due to copyright regulations.
However, a solution exists – the use of a reliable VPN service like NordVPN or ExpressVPN. With a VPN, viewers can connect with a virtual location where the movie is accessible, such as Greece, and enjoy it on Netflix from anywhere in the world.
How to watch 12 Years a Slave on Netflix in 2023?
12 Years a Slave is an American movie focused on all the hardships and cruelty faced by Africans in the United States. The movie is available on Netflix but in limited regions and countries only.
You can stream 12 Years a Slave on Netflix if you are residing in certain regions like Greece, but if you are outside these regions, then you need to use a VPN service and follow these steps to watch the movie:
1- Sign up for a reliable VPN to unblock Netflix (We recommend ExpressVPN and NordVPN after testing)
2- Download the VPN application on your preferred device. (Both ExpressVPN and NordVPN have dedicated apps for several devices like PC, Mac, and Android devices)
3- Select a Greek server from the country list
4- Now open Netflix in your browser or in-app
5- Search 12 Years a Slave on Netflix
6- Enjoy the movie
Watching 12 Years a Slave on Netflix with ExpressVPN | Detailed Explanation
Netflix has made the award-winning film 12 Years a Slave available for streaming, but it is currently restricted to certain countries like Greece. However, a trustworthy premium VPN service such as ExpressVPN can easily bypass these limitations. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to watch 12 Years a Slave on Netflix from the US or anywhere else:
1- Sign up for ExpressVPN
Select a VPN service provider that can bypass geographical limitations enforced by Netflix. ExpressVPN is an excellent choice and offers various subscription options, including monthly, bi-annual, and yearly plans and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
For as little as $6.67 per month, you can also access other popular streaming services like Peacock TV, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer.
2- Download it on your preferred device
After subscribing to the VPN service, download and install the app on the device of your preference. The VPN app can be installed on any device, whether it’s a gaming console, smart TV, iOS, Android, Windows, or macOS device.
3- Connect to a Greek server
Choose and connect to a server situated in Greece from the available server list on the VPN app. This will assign you a Greek IP address, giving you access to the Netflix Greece library.
4- Enjoy
Once you have successfully connected to a Greek server, open the Netflix app or website and search for 12 Years a Slave. You can now stream the movie with ease.
12 Years a Slave – Netflix Countries
12 Years a Slave is streaming on Netflix, but fans from around the world keep asking the same question, “In which country can I Watch 12 Years a Slave on Netflix?”. Our research team has found that this movie is currently streaming on Netflix in only two countries; Greece and the United Kingdom.
12 Years a Slave – Release Date
12 Years a Slave was released in cinemas on February 7, 2014, and is considered one of the best films ever. It grossed over $187 million and was a commercial success. The film received positive reviews and got impressive ratings on different platforms. However, IMDb gives it an 8.1/10 viewers rating, while Rotten Tomatoes gives it a 95% rating.
12 Years a Slave – Official Trailer
12 Years a Slave – What to Expect from the Movie?
12 Years a Slave,” directed by Steve McQueen, is a historical drama released in 2013 that tells the true story of Solomon Northup, a free African-American man who was kidnapped and sold into slavery in the mid-1800s.
The film chronicles Northup’s heart-wrenching journey through various Louisiana plantations as he struggles to survive in a brutal world of slavery. Here are some of the highlights of the movie:
Compelling Narrative
12 Years a Slave offers a compelling narrative that explores the horrors of slavery in America. Through Solomon Northup’s story, the film brings to life the devastating effects of slavery on individuals and society. The film’s portrayal of the physical and emotional abuse inflicted on slaves provides a glimpse into the inhumanity of the institution of slavery.
Realistic Cinematography
The film’s realistic cinematography captures the harsh realities of slavery with remarkable accuracy. The use of natural light and minimalistic camera movements immerses the audience in the time period, emphasizing the emotional impact of the film’s events. The director’s attention to detail creates a vivid picture of life on a plantation, which adds to the film’s authenticity.
Excellent Performances
12 Years a Slave features an outstanding cast of actors who deliver powerful and moving performances. Chiwetel Ejiofor portrays Solomon Northup with incredible depth and nuance, bringing the character’s pain and struggles to live. Supporting actors Lupita Nyong’o, Michael Fassbender, and Benedict Cumberbatch add complexity and dimension to the film’s characters, making them more realistic and memorable.
Themes of Oppression and Freedom
The film explores important themes of oppression and freedom, highlighting the struggles of African-Americans during the slavery era. The film’s unflinching portrayal of the brutality of slavery forces the audience to confront the realities of racism and oppression. It offers a thought-provoking examination of the human spirit’s ability to endure and overcome adversity, inspiring audiences with a message of hope and resilience.
Heartrending Scenes
The film’s heartrending scenes are masterfully crafted, creating a sense of emotional intensity that lingers with the audience long after the film has ended. The scenes of violence and brutality are difficult to watch but necessary to understand the film’s message. The movie’s conclusion leaves a lasting impact on the audience, encouraging them to reflect on the human cost of slavery and the importance of social justice and equality.
The Cast of 12 Years of Slave
12 Years a Slave, helmed by director Steve McQueen, is an emotionally profound film that delves into the horrors of slavery in the mid-19th century United States. Drawing from Solomon Northup’s autobiography, the movie portrays his harrowing journey from being a free African-American man to being kidnapped and sold into slavery.
The film features a talented cast. Let’s dive deeper into the characters of the film and the actors who play them.
- Chiwetel Ejiofor as Solomon Northup
Chiwetel Ejiofor delivers an unforgettable performance as the film’s protagonist. Ejiofor captures Northup’s unwavering resilience, strength, and relentless pursuit of freedom. Ejiofor has showcased his versatility in films like Children of Men, Inside Man, and The Martian. He has also received acclaim for his work in the television series Dancing on the Edge and the film Dirty Pretty Things.
- Michael Fassbender as Edwin Epps
Michael Fassbender brings chilling conviction to his role as Edwin Epps, a cruel and sadistic slave owner. Fassbender’s dedication to his craft shines through as he portrays morally complex characters. His filmography boasts notable appearances in X-Men: First Class, Inglourious Basterds, and Steve Jobs.
- Lupita Nyong’o as Patsey
Lupita Nyong’o’s breakthrough performance as Patsey earned her critical acclaim and an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. She delivers a heart-wrenching portrayal of a young slave woman tormented by her master and mistress. Nyong’o has since become a prominent figure in the industry, featuring in films such as Black Panther, Us, and Little Monsters.
- Benedict Cumberbatch as William Ford
Benedict Cumberbatch takes on the role of William Ford, a relatively compassionate plantation owner who, despite his kindness, remains complicit in the institution of slavery. Known for his versatile acting skills, Cumberbatch boasts an extensive repertoire, having portrayed iconic characters like Sherlock Holmes in the television series Sherlock, Doctor Strange in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and Alan Turing in The Imitation Game.
Other notable names in the cast of 12 Years a Slave are:
- Paul Dano as John Tibeats
- Garret Dillahunt as Armsby
- Paul Giamatti as Theophilus Freeman
- Scoot McNairy as Merrill Brown
- Adepero Oduye as Eliza
- Sarah Paulson as Mary Epps
- Brad Pitt as Samuel Bass
- Michael Kenneth Williams as Robert
- Alfre Woodard as Mistress Harriet Shaw
- Storm Reid as Emily
Why is ExpressVPN the best choice to watch 12 Years a Slave on Netflix?
It can be extremely frustrating when you are unable to access your desired content, such as the critically acclaimed movie 12 Years a Slave, on Netflix, due to regional restrictions and copyright limitations of the platform. Fortunately, ExpressVPN, a top-tier VPN provider, can help you overcome this issue.
ExpressVPN ensures you can stream 12 Years a Slave or any other Netflix content with lightning-fast download and upload speeds, up to 98Mbps and 87Mbps, respectively, on a 100Mbps connection. This guarantees smooth streaming with no buffering or interruptions.
In addition to providing seamless streaming of your favorite content, ExpressVPN offers advanced security features like Split Tunneling, MediaStream DNS, and an Internet Kill Switch to ensure complete protection of your online activity.
The VPN service is available on multiple operating systems, including Windows, Android, iOS, and Linux, and can be used on various devices like smartphones, tablets, laptops, and gaming consoles.
Take advantage of the limited-time offer and get a 49% discount on a 12-month subscription, which also includes an additional three months for free, giving you a total of 15 months of worry-free streaming at just $6.67/month. ExpressVPN also offers 24-hour customer support and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Is it possible to watch 12 Years a Slave on Netflix using a free VPN?
For a smooth and uninterrupted streaming experience of 12 Years a Slave or any other movie or show on Netflix, it is essential to avoid using free VPNs as they often lack reliability and may compromise the quality of your stream.
Additionally, they can trigger the frustrating Netflix Proxy Error, preventing you from accessing your desired content. To ensure hassle-free streaming, choosing a reputable VPN service like NordVPN or ExpressVPN is highly recommended.
To enhance your viewing experience further, you might consider organizing a watch party with your friends and family using platforms like Discord to share your Netflix screen.
12 Years a Slave – FAQs
1- Is 12 Years a Slave based on a true story?
12 Years a Slave is rooted in historical truth. It draws inspiration from Solomon Northup’s firsthand account, published in 1853. Northup’s memoir vividly recounts his harrowing experience of being kidnapped and forced into bondage, and his eventual triumphant escape, serving as a poignant reflection of slavery’s brutal realities in the United States.
2- Why is 12 Years a Slave problematic?
12 Years a Slave is considered problematic by some due to its graphic depiction of slavery and the potential perpetuation of racial stereotypes. According to film critic Armond White, 12 Years a Slave has been criticized for its portrayal of slavery as “torture porn” and accused director Steve McQueen of transforming historical events into a macabre spectacle, blurring the line between historical accuracy and excessive violence, suffering, and anguish.
3- How many Oscars did 12 Years a Slave win?
12 Years a Slave received numerous award nominations and won three Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Supporting Actress.
4- What else can I watch on Netflix after 12 Years a Slave?
When it comes to content, Netflix has thousands of hours of movies, TV shows, and documentaries to offer. Here is a list of movies and TV shows you can watch on Netflix after 12 Years a Slave.
- Knives Out
- Mad Max: Fury Road
- Twilight
- Lord of the Rings
- The Matrix
- IP Man
- The Revenant
- The Great Gatsby
- Taxi Driver 1976
- John Wick 3
- The Shawshank Redemption
- Shutter Island
Wrap Up
12 Years a Slave is one of Hollywood’s best Western drama movies. The movie tells a story of a slave who faced difficulties in every phase of his life. 12 Years a Slave is streaming on Netflix but in limited regions, but you can watch it easily from anywhere in the world using a trustable VPN service like ExpressVPN.
