"Selma" Review

Title: Selma

Directed by: Ava DuVernay

Screenplay by: Paul Webb and Ava DuVernay

Year: 2014

It's surprising to think that there really hasn't been a theatrically released film about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. that isn't a documentary. That is, until Selma. Is the first "real" film about this iconic figure worthy of the man's reputation, or does it prove that there is a reason why no such film has been made until now?

Unlike many biopics, Selma dwells only on a specific point in its leading character's life, in this case, Martin Luther King Jr.'s march to from Selma to Montgomery. The movie explores the support he must rally and the obstacles he must overcome, as well as the man himself, pulling no punches with the truth.

Far and away, the most impressive thing about this film is the lead performance by David Oyelowo. To portray Dr. King is not an easy task, but not only does Oyelowo look the part, he also speaks the part. He imitates Dr. King's voice so well, it can only be described as perfect. Every mannerism, every line of dialogue, everything about Oyelowo has been tuned to absolute perfection. He is unrecognizable as the character and, like Jake Gyllenhaal, was snubbed at the Academy Awards this past season. However, Oyelowo's outstanding performance also presents a small issue; it is an extremely hard act to follow. None of the other actors can hold a candle to his performance. Not to say that rest of the acting is bad, as a matter of fact, it's very good. But Oyelowo is the definition of a scene stealer in this picture. Oprah Winfrey, Tom Wilkinson, Cuba Gooding Jr., and Tim Roth (along with the other cast members) bring strength to their roles and play them well.

This story is something that has not quite been done before, and I am glad that it has finally been brought to the big screen. Contrary to popular belief, King's endeavor's for equality did not end with his famous "I Have a Dream" speech. Selma illustrates this very well, by showing that many events followed that iconic historical moment, without sugar coating anything. The on-screen violence is very brutal and was hard to watch at times, which was a brilliant move on DuVernay's part. The brutality of these scenes not only allows us to sympathize with the characters and is not only accurate, but it also gives a definition to the term "racism."Racism is a word so often tossed around these days, that it has lost some of its meaning. DuVernay expertly brings a weight to the word. This is also accomplished by effective use of various slow motion shots.

The editing is something that I haven't seen mentioned in any review of this film. I feel the editing of Selma is very subtle yet effective. The typewriter transitions are creative and help the audience to get fully immersed in the time period. Also, Selma could have so easily been a very slow movie, as there really isn't any action. The pacing of this film relied on both the screenplay and the editing. Not once did I feel a scene overstayed its welcome. The film has been cut and polished very efficiently.

The production values are very, very good as well. Right from the start, you feel as if you are in the 1960s. The typewriter transitions I mentioned earlier help with this, and its the little touches like this that go a long way. The way people speak and dress, the sets, it is all very convincing.

I spoke about the screenplay a little bit earlier and how it affected the pacing. This is a "talky" movie. There aren't any action set pieces or anything of the sort. Here, the dialogue shines. A lot of care and research was put into writing the script and the effort is very evident. The numerous speeches in the film are particular standouts. More than several of them are moving and can give you goosebumps.

In addition the musical selection is great, with "Glory" deservedly winning the Best Original Song Oscar, as well as the cinematography and direction. Ava DuVernay's direction is impeccable, and well worth the praise it has received. The film looks beautiful and the shot composition is excellent. The cinematography is especially incredible during the scenes when they march over the bridge. The way the camera moves is just stunning.

If I did have one gripe with the film, it would be the portrayal of Lyndon B. Johnson. Don't get me wrong, Wilkinson plays the part well, but the character is not historically accurate. I am fine with artistic liberties as they allow for possible improvements on the source material or for a stronger version of a film. But here it doesn't work because of one small detail. In real life, Johnson and King were on good terms. In Selma, they argue often and seem to be on opposing sides, which I am fine with as it provides for some good drama. The issue is that Johnson's motivations are not made clear. he says he cannot sign the bill, but he doesn't state why when King asks him. This ultimately weakens the entire conflict, since we do not know why the conflict cannot be brought to a swifter end.

Aside from my one issue with it, Selma is a marvelous movie. David Oyelowo's performance alone makes this essential viewing. Ava DuVernay's direction is stellar, the acting is great, the story is gripping and possibly tearjerking at points. Selma is a movie that I cannot believe has not been made until now, but I'm glad that it finally has been. This could have been a nightmare, but thankfully, it turned out to be a wonderful dream come true.

Grade: A