12 Years a Slave (2013)
A free man's harrowing abduction into slavery reveals the brutal fight for dignity and survival.
In the pre-Civil War United States, Solomon Northup, a free black man from upstate New York, is abducted and sold into slavery. Facing cruelty as well as unexpected kindnesses Solomon struggles not only to stay alive, but to retain his dignity. In the twelfth year of his unforgettable odyssey, Solomon’s chance meeting with a Canadian abolitionist will forever alter his life.
How intense is 12 Years a Slave?
12 Years a Slave is mildly scary, with graphic gore and brutal violence. Emotionally it is devastating. The pace is measured, and it is a full-attention watch. Rated R.
What 12 Years a Slave feels like
- Tone
- grittybleakearnest
- Pace
- Measured
- Best for
- Full attention
- True story
- Yes, based on a book.
Where to stream 12 Years a Slave
Not on a US subscription service at our last check. Rent or buy may still be an option.
US availability via TMDB, last checked Sep 13, 2026. The app filters picks to the services you actually have.
Is 12 Years a Slave for you?
Is 12 Years a Slave scary?
Only a little. 12 Years a Slave has a few tense moments (scare level 1 of 3), nothing that follows you to bed.
Is 12 Years a Slave gory or violent?
Graphic gore (2 of 3) and brutal violence (3 of 3). If graphic gore is a dealbreaker, skip it.
Is 12 Years a Slave sad or heavy?
Yes. Emotional weight 3 of 3. It hits hard; do not plan anything light after.
Is 12 Years a Slave OK for kids?
It is rated R, so it is made for adults. Intensity: scare 1, gore 2, violence 3, each out of 3.
How long is 12 Years a Slave?
12 Years a Slave runs 2h 14m.
Where can I stream 12 Years a Slave?
12 Years a Slave is not on a US subscription service right now (rent or buy may still be an option).
Cast and crew
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