Steve McQueen: 12 Years a Slave (2013)

The London-born artist's third big feature, based on a true account of a Saratoga, New York free black man, a violinist with a family, who was kidnapped and sold into slavery in the South. It's probably unsafe not to like this one, with its popular Toronto award and Oscar tweets, powerful emotions and strong acting, but I dare to offer a few criticisms. It's protagonist (played by Chiwetel Ejiofor) who's a model of self restraint and martyrdom is consistent with the earlier two played by Michael Fassbender. I still like HUNGER best.

Limited US release begins Oct. 18.