12 Years a Slave is a 2013 historical drama film based on the true story of Solomon Northup, a free black man who was kidnapped in Washington, D.C. in 1841 and sold into slavery. The film follows Solomon's struggle to survive and maintain his dignity over the course of 12 years as a slave in Louisiana, and stars Chiwetel Ejiofor as Solomon Northup. It was directed by Steve McQueen and won multiple awards including the Academy Award for Best Picture.