The Hollywood Reporter praised Range's subtle touch, describing the film as 'heart-wrenching' and 'unexpectedly gripping.' Writing in the Daily Telegraph, Josh Prince described it as 'a film of jolting accuracy and real emotional clout.' The premiere of the film in the United Kingdom was on Channel 4 in 2010, making it eligible for the 2011 BAFTA Television Awards; it was nominated in the Best Single Drama category. "I Am Slave" also won Best UK Film at the 2010 UK Music Video and Screen Awards and was nominated for a Broadcast Award (Best Single Drama) and a One World Media Award.