By

Monteque Pope-Le Beau

Director Ava DuVernay’s “Selma” is the hard reality in the life of revered leader and visionary Dr. Martin Luther King jr. (David Oyelowo) who was the lightning rod for change  in  the Civil Rights at a time when there was so little hope and forever altered history.

“Selma” is not just a story of a movement, but also a story about people fighting a system to be  recognized as human beings with the same privileges and rights afforded those not of color. The film takes place in the worst three month period in 1965 of in the Civil Rights history; when Dr. Martin Luther King jr.  in the face of violent opposition sought and fought to secure equal voting rights in a very dangerous time. The Historically monumental protest march of Selma caused President Johnson (Tom Wilkinson) to sign the Voting Rights Act of 1965, one of the most important victories of the civil rights movement.

Director Ava DuVernay retelling of this turbulent time in  the Civil Rights history is both poignant and compelling. At times it literally tears at your heart with such profound sadness and despair, but the river of hope which lies underneath raises ones spirits in celebration of the long struggle for equality and freedom which we enjoy today.

It should be noted that Director Ava DuVernay is the first african american women nominated for Best Director for the Golden Globes. Which in it’s self is a historical moment for women and people of color.

Selma 127 min

Director: Ava DuVernay

Behind The Scenes with Ava DuVernay Featurette