Nelson

The Color of Freedom, or Goodbye Bafana, was a movie based on the memoirs of James Gregory. Gregory was a warder who got to know Mandela during his time as a prisoner. For many years Gregory was in charge of handling Mandela's mail, along with various other prisoners. And for years to come Gregory developed an unspoken bond with Mandela.

Goodbye Bafana, the African title, was taken from Gregory's book of memoirs, "Goodbye Bafana; Nelson Mandela, My Prisoner, My Friend". Bafana is a Zulu word meaning "boys", it is endearing to some, and a source of pride, but to others "bafana" can be linked back to more troubled times and holds some ties to prejudices and rascism. It is not only this that is controversal, Gregory himself is questionable. His connection to Mandela has been targeted as being fabricated, and an idealized version of the calculated nature of their relationship.

"Warrant Officer James Gregory was also there at the house, and I embraced him warmly. In the years that he had looked after me from Pollsmoor through Victor Verster, we had never discussed politics, but our bond was an unspoken one and I would miss his soothing presence". -Nelson Mandela

Whether or not the connection was 100% factual the focus of the movie should be upon the issues. The film was a beautiful illustration of Mandela's time in prison. You were able to see and understand the injustices, and get a glance of Mandela's heart and character.