A United Kingdom - (2016)

Simon Bowles brought his exceptional skills to bear on the captivating film "A United Kingdom" written and directed by Amma Asante. With an astute eye for detail and a deep understanding of the film's historical context, Bowles successfully transported audiences to 1940s Botswana and London. His meticulous research and attention was evident in every frame, from the vibrant African landscapes to the elegant British interiors. Bowles' ability to seamlessly blend the grandeur of the colonial era with the organic beauty of the African setting contributed to the immersive and authentic portrayal of this inspiring true story. Through his masterful work, Bowles elevated the visual storytelling of "A United Kingdom" and provided a rich and evocative backdrop for the stellar performances of the cast.

Shot in London and Botswana, Africa.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The Times        ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The Guardian        ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Hey U Guys

 "A United Kingdom's key strength is the immense attention to detail in terms of its production design" Paul Heath, The Hollywood News

 "The film looks remarkable, there's an indelible charm and striking aesthetic"  Stefan Pape, Hey U Guys

 "A United Kingdom is rich in detail and design" Simian Hans, Sight & Sound

 "The production values, costume and set design remain immaculate in each location: Simon Bowles, Jenny Beavan and Rebecca Alleway are deserving of the praise their respective talents are most certainly due." Matthew Anderson, Cine Vue

 "Production designer Simon Bowles clearly relishes the broad canvas opportunities of the narrative..." Mark Kermode, The Guardian

 "Production designer Simon Bowles conveys a strong sense of time and place in both the London and Bechuanaland settings" Derrick Bang, The Davis Enterprise 

Click on image below to play trailer…

Selected shots from the movie…

David Oyelowo stars, playing Seretse Khama - Botswana's first president from 1966-80 - with Rosamund Pike co-starring, playing Ruth Williams, the young woman who would eventually become his wife, and the inaugural First Lady of Botswana. 

The pair met in 1947 and eventually made headline news all over the world, after falling in love and getting married, while Seretse Khama was an heir to the chieftainship of the Bamangwato tribe in Botswama. The film focuses on their interracial love affair that was considered so scandalous at the time, so much that the couple had to spend six years in exile in London, banned from Khama’s own country because he married a white woman. The couple's son, Ian Khama, is currently president of Botswana. 

The film was shot in Botswana and London, contrasting the post-war smog of Britain against the huge clear skies and red sand of their home in Botswana.

The film was made with the cooperation of the Khama family, “We are pleased that the story of Sir Seretse Khama and Lady Khama is being brought to life in the film A United Kingdom. Our family has been regularly involved in development of this film so far, having collaborated closely with the screenwriter Guy Hibbert in what we believe is a wonderful script. We are equally pleased that David Oyelowo will lead the cast as Seretse.”

Ruth's Bedroom studio set.