Interesting Facts About “12 Years a Slave”

Fact: Only One Camera Was Used to Shoot the Film

In a time when hundreds of cameras and special affects generally accompany films, the movie 12 Years a Slave was entirely shot with one camera. According to Sean Bobbitt, he decided to shoot the movie with one camera so the scenes would have a “real feel” to them.

Michael Fassbender and Brad Pitt Collaborate Again

This isn’t the first time that Michael Fassbender and Brad Pitt have collaborated. This was their third collaboration, since they previously appeared together in The Counselor and in the well-known movie, Inglorious Bastards. According to Fassbender, if it weren’t for Pitt’s involvement, the movie may not have “come into being.”

Director Steve McQueen Wanted Only Chiwetel Ejiofor

According to the director of the movie, Steve McQueen, he decided that he only wanted Chiwetel Ejiofor to play the part of Solomon, the free black man in the movie. McQueen felt that no other actor would be able to play the character the way Chiwetel could. Although Chiwetel initially turned down the role, he decided to get over his fear and take on the role. To get in character, Chiwetel learned to how play the violin and also spend time immersed in Louisiana plantation culture.