Selma

June 19, 2024

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Director

Ava DuVernay

Released

2014

Country

Run Time

2h 8m

Rating

PG-13

Format

Film

Reviews

"Selma is one of the best American films of the year — and indeed perhaps the best — precisely because it does not simply show what Dr. King did for America in his day; it also wonders explicitly what we have left undone for America in ours."
– THEWRAP

"Selma is vital correspondence, filmmaking lived on the streets where brutal facts were ignored then reported, and now snatched back from history to sustain a spirit few films can or will possess. It is stunning humanistic cinema on a mainstream scale... It has inventiveness, urgency, humor, and most of all emotion that draws effortless parallels rather than leaving its lesson up on the screen."
– THE PLAYLIST

"With Selma, DuVernay has pulled off a tricky feat, a movie based on historical events that never feels dull, worthy, or lifeless; it hangs together as a story and not just part of a lesson plan. The movie is at once intimate and grand in scope."
– VILLAGE VOICE

"Brilliantly acted and directed, Ava DuVernay’s towering Selma is Hollywood’s definitive depiction of the 1960s American civil rights movement — as well as perhaps the most timely movie you’ll see this year."
– NEW YORK POST

Artist Bio

Director Q&A

Overview

SELMA is a powerful historical drama that chronicles the 1965 Selma to Montgomery voting rights marches led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other civil rights leaders. Set against the backdrop of the turbulent civil rights movement, the film highlights the strategic planning and grassroots organizing that went into these pivotal marches. Director Ava DuVernay's vision brings a sense of urgency and authenticity to the story, capturing the intense emotions and high stakes of the struggle for equal voting rights.

DuVernay's meticulous attention to detail and her ability to evoke strong performances from her cast are evident throughout the film. David Oyelowo's portrayal of Dr. King is both commanding and nuanced, showcasing the personal and public challenges he faced. DuVernay's direction ensures that the supporting characters, including Coretta Scott King (played by Carmen Ejogo) and other key activists, are given depth and significance, highlighting their essential contributions to the movement. The film's powerful scenes, such as the brutal attacks on peaceful marchers by law enforcement, are shot with a raw intensity that emphasizes the violence and injustice faced by the protestors.

One of the most remarkable aspects of DuVernay's direction in SELMA is her ability to blend historical accuracy with compelling storytelling. She employs a dynamic visual style, using a mix of wide shots to capture the scale of the marches and close-ups to convey the personal stakes involved. DuVernay's use of music, including the Oscar-winning song "Glory" by John Legend and Common, enhances the emotional impact of the film. Through her direction, DuVernay not only tells the story of a critical moment in American history but also underscores the ongoing relevance of the fight for civil rights.

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Reviews

What is

?

Ava DuVernay stands out as a remarkable director thanks to her unique storytelling, innovative techniques, and unwavering commitment to social justice. She weaves narratives that not only captivate but also challenge viewers, shedding light on critical issues like racial inequality and historical injustices. Her films are testaments to her ability to blend raw emotion with poignant social commentary, leaving a lasting impact on audiences. Beyond her films, DuVernay is a trailblazer, breaking barriers and championing diversity in the industry, ensuring that underrepresented voices are heard. Her visionary approach and dedication to transformative storytelling make her a luminary in modern cinema.