Once We Were Slaves

Once We Were Slaves is a dramatic and historically-rich short film that effectively uses its limited runtime to weave a compelling narrative that transcends time and cultures. Directed by Dallas Jenkins and released in 2014, the film stars Stelio Savante, Christopher Maleki, and Jacob Alexander.

Once We Were Slaves delicately explores the times of ancient slavery and religious persecution in Rome, putting viewers right in the heart of the action. Stelio Savante and Christopher Maleki take center stage as two Jewish brothers, Elazar and Lamon, who are plucked from their homeland and thrust into a life of slavery under the oppressive reign of the Roman Empire.

The narrative kicks off as Elazar and Lamon are captured and sold into servitude. They are thrust into the bustling heart of Rome, where they become personal slaves for a Roman senator and his family. Savante and Maleki perfectly capture the essence of these two brothers, one who's resilient and steadfast in the face of adversity, and the other who's slowly but surely succumbing to the crushing despair of their circumstances. Their performances expertly deliver the shared heartache and struggle of those living under a brutal regime.

As the story unfolds, the brothers cross paths with Jacob Alexander's character, a mysterious prisoner who deeply impacts their lives. While initially, the brothers see him as just another caught in the same cruel fate, they soon realize that this prisoner is unique and inexplicably different from them. Alexander's performance breathes a sense of hope and perseverance into his character, paving the way for a transformative influence on the perspective of Elazar and Lamon.

Once We Were Slaves seamlessly blends history and drama, shifting between glimpses of daily life under the Roman Empire and intimate moments shared between its central characters. This sense of authenticity is achieved by remarkable period-detailing, from the historically accurate attire and architecture to the film’s representation of societal norms and relationships. Coupled with its gritty cinematography and a vivid color palette, the film accomplishes a stark and realistic portrayal of the era.

The film's strong narrative and historical underpinnings are fortified by an evocative score that echoes the characters emotions, from hope to despair, further immersing the viewer into the story. The script, penned by Dallas Jenkins, is tight and intentional, with the narrative convincingly building up tension and layering dramatic moments to culminate in a powerful climax.

While Once We Were Slaves is not an action-packed movie or a larger-than-life drama, its true strength lies in the subtlety with which it explores the complexities of human relations, faith, and moral dilemmas arising from desperate circumstances. The characters, despite the opulence and grandiosity of their surroundings, emote an undeniably human experience that helps the audience connect and empathize with their plight. The complexities and the human cost of the Roman society’s power dynamics and caste system are also painted convincingly.

At its core, Once We Were Slaves is an exploration of faith and resilience in the face of despair. It takes viewers on a profound journey that marks not only the physical trials of servitude but also the mental and spiritual journey of its protagonists. Its raw take on the era sets it apart, and the performances of Savante, Maleki, and Alexander bring an affecting depth and realism to the narrative.

Riding on the skillful direction of Dallas Jenkins, Once We Were Slaves is a well-crafted piece that is as much about personal faith and endurance as it is about the larger historical and social context of Roman-era slavery. It is a movie that urges its audiences to delve into their depths of understanding about faith, perseverance, and the spirit of humanity.

In all, Once We Were Slaves promises a rewarding viewing experience despite its short runtime. It encapsulates a poignant tale of hope and despair, family and tribulations, faith and courage within the confines of ancient Rome. Its skillful storytelling and remarkable performances ensure that the echoes of Elazar, Lamon, and the enigmatic prisoner's story remain long after the credits roll.