Endgame (2009 film)

Endgame is a 2009 British film directed by Pete Travis, based on the book The Fall of Apartheid by Robert Harvey. The film dramatizes the secret negotiations between the African National Congress (ANC) and the South African government during the final years of apartheid.

The film focuses primarily on the role of Michael Young (played by Jonny Lee Miller), a British businessman who acted as a secret intermediary between the ANC, represented by Thabo Mbeki (played by Chiwetel Ejiofor), and key figures in the South African government, including Professor Willie Esterhuyse (played by William Hurt). These clandestine meetings, held in country houses and other discreet locations, were crucial in establishing a channel of communication and trust between the two sides, laying the groundwork for formal negotiations and the eventual dismantling of apartheid.

Endgame highlights the complex political landscape of the time, the deep-seated animosity between the ANC and the government, and the risks taken by individuals on both sides to find a peaceful resolution. The film portrays the internal divisions within both the ANC and the government, showcasing the challenges faced in reaching a consensus on the future of South Africa. It also illustrates the involvement of international actors and the pressures they exerted on the apartheid regime.

The film was nominated for several awards, including a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Directing for a Miniseries, Movie or a Dramatic Special. It is recognized for its compelling narrative and its portrayal of a pivotal moment in South African history.