Selma (2014)

Directed by: Ava DuVernay
Country: USA

Movie Review: Already exhibiting an enlightened sense of filmmaking in “I Will Follow” and “Middle of Nowhere”, Ava DuVernay, now sees herself taking an outstanding position in the modern cinema with this powerful historical drama about Dr. Martin Luther King’s sacrifices and efforts to achieve civil rights for black people in a hostile atmosphere. The film, solidly written by debutant Paul Webb, has in its base the three Selma-Montgomery marches that took place in 1965 Alabama, chronicling the last three months of the pacific campaign. “Selma” starts with Dr. King (David Oyelowo) receiving the Nobel Peace prize, and approaching the president Lyndon Johnson (Tom Wilkinson) in order to make something to stop the violent crimes of white men who have the protection of a tendentious judicial system, especially in the South. By making his point of view clear, King’s non-violent movement works according to three principles: negotiate, demonstrate, resist. With this fundamental posture, his political ideas will make the impossible, uniting blacks and whites in a memorable victory towards social and civic equality. Tension is as strong as the emotional impact that comes out from its beautifully shot scenes, pulsing energy even in serene moments. DuVernay was able to surprise me whenever I thought the film would slow down, managing to move into the right direction and never falling in banality. This is a film where we can really sense the courage of actions and the power of words, while getting sad and appalled with the intolerance and abuses of power perpetrated by the state troopers. Thoughtful approach, efficient narrative and a magnificent casting, makes “Selma”, a film not to be missed.