Selma

This MLK Day we’re re-watching Selma. Ava DuVernay’s powerful biopic of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. tells the story of the march for voting rights in Alabama that ended in violence, but ultimately was the catalyst for Lyndon B. Johnson to sign the Voting Rights Act. The film shines with standout performances by David Oyelowo, Tessa Thompson, Lakeith Stanfield, Oprah Winfrey, and Tim Roth.

“This is an emotional movie that aims to anger, sadden and inspire viewers, sometimes in the same scene. Selma takes no prisoners and, while it welcomes moviegoers of all hues, it has no intention of sugarcoating its horrors for politically correct comforting. This film—one of the year’s best—is an announcement of a major talent in Ms. DuVernay, but its core message will not be lost nor hidden by the accolades it receives. Through the noise, Selma speaks to us: From the top of the hill of progress, it is just as easy to slide down backwards as it is to move forward. Attention must be paid.” —Odie Henderson, RogerEbert.com

Rated PG-13. 127 minutes.

WATCH NOW