One of the most anticipated movies of the year, 'Invictus' tells the story of former president Nelson Mandela's plan to use the 1995 Rugby World Cup as an instrument to unite South Africa.

Directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Hollywood heavyweights Matt Damon and Morgan Freeman, 'Invictus' seems an unusual choice for a largely American production team.

Freeman, who was originally on board with local producer Anant Singh on their adaptation of 'A Long Walk to Freedom', sees Mandela's involvement in the World Cup as one of the highlights of his presidency. "The story is a perfect story if you want to tell one about Madiba ? who he was, how he was, why he was and what he was," says Freeman.

When asked who he would want to play him in a movie of his life, Mandela famously answered "Morgan Freeman" ? which allowed Freeman to get access to the Nobel Prize winner. Freeman spent a great deal of time learning Mandela's mannerisms, the way he speaks and most importantly how he feels. When the production of 'A Long Walk to Freedom' stalled, 'Invictus' came along and offered a "perfect" chance to take on the role of Mandela.

Questions had been raised prior to the opening of 'Invictus' as to whether or not the Americans could get a grip on the subject matter of the film, but Freeman is unconcerned. "I personally think we told it well," says Freeman. "I think the movie was good.

"So far we've had a lot of really, really positive feedback from South Africans".

View the video interview with Morgan Freeman in the player at the top of this screen.

Invictus opened in cinemas on Friday, 11 December.