Ever wonder about the origins of “Amazing Grace”? It’s not something I normally think about, but apparently there’s a pretty good story behind it; good enough for a movie by the same name starring Fantastic Four’s Ioan Gruffudd. Now Fox is releasing Amazing Grace on DVD on November 13th.

In the movie, Gruffudd plays William Wilberforce, a leader of the British slavery abolition movement. The movie covers Wilberforce’s struggle to end slave trade in Britain despite harsh opposition. Among Wilberforce’s friends is reformed slave ship captain John Newton (played by Albert Finny) who wrote the beloved hymn “Amazing Grace” to encourage Wilberforce to carry on his cause. Michael Apted (The World Is Not Enough) directs.

For a movie I haven’t heard much about, the DVD is coming with a fair amount of extras. Perhaps this is one of those hidden gems that just slid by. Our critic seemed to like it. Take a look below, and check out Amazing Grace on November 13th.

Bonus Material Audio Commentary with Director Michael Apted and Ioan Gruffudd “How Sweet the Sound: The Story of Amazing Grace” – this half-hour documentary provides an in-depth look at the making of the film and the story’s relevance to today. “Finding Freedom” - A Tour of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center providing factual information about modern-day slavery practices. Interactive Discussion Tools and Study Guides – The discussion guides provide thought-provoking questions that can be printed out for use in classrooms or bible study groups. Music video of Grammy Nominee Chris Tomlin’s version of “Amazing Grace.”