Rating of
3.5/4
A Triumph of Inspiration
Unknown - wrote on 01/13/15
2014 had a lot of historical biographies based on true stories. While most were great, 'Selma' is easily the best of the bunch. It is dramatized, like all the rest, but it is the most grounded I've seen in a very long time. The people in the film exist in an absolute believable reality and feel completely natural. A cast of terrific talents is assembled. The obvious standout is the central performance of David Oyelowo as the iconic Martin Luther King. He embodies the pure essence of this great individual. I'd cry out in shock if no Academy Award nomination was announced. The film perfectly captures the racial tensions of a certain time. The social theme still holds some relevance in today's society. This makes the deep seeded emotional core ever more palpable. The politics and relations are given as much equal light. Every side to the issue is covered thoroughly. 'Selma' isn't just the triumphant story of one man gathering others to make a difference, it's the inspiring success in correcting human error through compassion. This is the kind of biopic that should be shown in schools.
