IMDb 6.9 2016 HD

A United Kingdom

A United Kingdom

2016
Drama History
111 min PG-13 United Kingdom
6.7 / 10
6.9 IMDB

The inspiring true story of Seretse Khama, the King of Bechuanaland (modern Botswana), and Ruth Williams, the London office worker he married in 1948 in the face of…

Personnel // Cast & Crew

Director Amma Asante
Starring
David Oyelowo / Rosamund Pike / Tom Felton / Jack Davenport / Terry Pheto / Laura Carmichael / Jessica Oyelowo / Vusi Kunene

How Viewers Describe This Film

Common themes and sentiments

inspiring poignant historical romantic challenging resilient powerful emotional courageous significant

Reviews

C
Chloe Davies
Apr 18, 2026
4.0 / 5
4.0

A United Kingdom is a profoundly affecting film, celebrating a love that defied empires and apartheid. David Oyelowo and Rosamund Pike deliver performances that are both sensitive and commanding, making their characters' struggle feel immediate and deeply personal.…

M
Marcus Bellwether
Apr 18, 2026
3.0 / 5
3.0

The story of Seretse Khama and Ruth Williams is inherently compelling, and 'A United Kingdom' does a commendable job of bringing it to the screen. David Oyelowo and Rosamund Pike are convincing as the central couple, conveying the…

I
Isabelle Moreau
Apr 18, 2026
4.5 / 5
4.5

A triumph of historical storytelling, 'A United Kingdom' is an essential watch for anyone who believes in the power of love and the fight for justice. David Oyelowo is simply superb, imbuing Seretse Khama with gravitas and unwavering…

A
Arthur Pendelton
Apr 18, 2026
3.5 / 5
3.5

This is a film that wears its heart on its sleeve, presenting the romance between Seretse Khama and Ruth Williams as an epic struggle against a prejudiced world. Oyelowo and Pike share a palpable chemistry, anchoring the narrative…

E
Eleanor Vance
Apr 18, 2026
4.0 / 5
4.0

A United Kingdom is a beautifully crafted historical drama that shines a much-needed light on a remarkable true story. David Oyelowo delivers a performance of quiet dignity as Seretse Khama, perfectly complemented by Rosamund Pike’s spirited portrayal of…

FAQs

The film vividly illustrates the intense pressure Seretse and Ruth endured. They faced ostracisation from their families, political exile for Seretse, and constant diplomatic interference from both the British and South African governments. The narrative portrays their resilience, their unwavering commitment to each other, and their strategic navigation of these formidable political and social obstacles, highlighting the personal toll and the ultimate triumph of their union against a backdrop of global apartheid.