This was one of the most uncomfortable, unpleasant and heartbreaking films I have ever seen in my entire life. And this well-acted, well-directed, well-shot movie is made even more harrowing when you take into account the fact that this was based off of an autobiography. The slow paced moments that allow you to really take in just how bad black people had it back in those times certainly don't do much to elevate the mood. That poor, poor woman. 12 Years a Slave is not only one of the best, if not THE best, films released in 2013 but possibly one of the most important films to ever be released in the 21st century.