Chiwetel Ejiofor's Go-To Film Pick Will Surprise You

Some performers never quite become household names, yet they consistently show up in memorable roles that stick with audiences long after the credits roll. Chiwetel Ejiofor fits perfectly into this category. While many recognize him from his Academy Award-nominated turn in '12 Years a Slave,' his career spans decades and includes standout performances in major productions like 'American Gangster,' 'Children of Men,' and yes, even 'Love Actually.'

An Unexpected Cinematic Choice

Given Ejiofor's impressive filmography, his personal viewing preferences offer fascinating insight into what drives his craft. During a conversation with MetFilm school in Manchester, the British actor shared his thoughts on cinema that truly resonates with him. When pressed about his favorite film, he acknowledged that his preferences shift over time, but one work consistently draws him back: Krzysztof Kieślowski's 'Dekalog.'

'It's a very beautiful piece of work centered around the Ten Commandments,' Ejiofor explained. 'It's set in basically one location and was shot in the 1980s for television. I always look to Dekalog if I am wanting to think about things and get inspired about things like relationship dynamics in film, setting environments, and psychology, and how all that intersects with cinematography. So that's what I come back to the most.'

A Masterwork in Ten Parts

Ejiofor admits his answer bends the rules slightly, since 'Dekalog' isn't technically a single movie but rather ten interconnected films. Kieślowski crafted this anthology to examine how the Ten Commandments relate to contemporary life in 1980s Poland. The entire series unfolds within a single apartment complex, exploring weighty themes including mortality, desire, honesty, belief, and human connection.

For viewers willing to commit nearly ten hours to the complete experience, 'Dekalog' offers an unparalleled journey through human nature. Those seeking a shorter introduction might consider the feature-length versions of episodes five and six, released as 'A Short Film About Killing' and 'A Short Film About Love.'

Critical Acclaim Across Generations

The series has earned extraordinary praise from cinema's most respected voices. Stanley Kubrick penned a foreword for the published screenplay, calling it the only 'masterpiece' he could identify at the time. Film critic Roger Ebert championed the work, while Brady Corbet, who recently won Best Director for 'The Brutalist,' described it as 'Maybe the greatest achievement in the history of cinema.'

For aspiring film enthusiasts, 'Dekalog' represents both an opportunity and a challenge. Its reputation can feel intimidating, but the consistent endorsements from industry legends suggest the investment pays substantial dividends for those ready to engage with Kieślowski's profound exploration of moral complexity.