A powerful and deeply moving historical drama that captivated audiences and critics alike is now available to stream on BBC iPlayer – and it tells the story of one of the most pivotal moments in the American civil rights movement.
Directed by Ava DuVernay, – who later went on to direct the acclaimed Netflix series When They See Us (2019) and the powerful documentary 13th (2016) – Selma (2014) is widely regarded as one of the most important historical films of the 21st century.
At its heart, it tells the story of the 1965 Selma-to-Montgomery marches, which were a turning point in the fight for equal voting rights for Black Americans.
These marches, led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., were met with violence from Alabama state troopers and white supremacists, but ultimately helped lead to the passing of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 – a landmark victory for civil rights.
David Oyelowo delivers a career-defining performance as Dr. King, embodying not just the legendary leader’s powerful oratory skills but also his moments of doubt, and the immense pressure he faced from all sides. His portrayal was widely praised, with The Hollywood Reporter calling it “one of the greatest depictions of a historical figure ever put to screen.”
The film boasts an impressive supporting cast, including Carmen Ejogo as Coretta Scott King, King’s wife and partner in activism. Also, Tom Wilkinson plays President Lyndon B. Johnson, Tim Roth is as Alabama Governor George Wallace, and Oprah Winfrey is Annie Lee Cooper, a woman who attempts to register to vote but is violently denied her rights.
Upon its release, Selma received general acclaim, with critics praising its direction, performances, and historical accuracy. The film holds a 99% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with the critics’ consensus reading: “Fueled by a gripping performance from David Oyelowo, Selma draws inspiration and dramatic power from the life and death of Martin Luther King, Jr. — but doesn’t ignore how far we remain from the ideals his work embodied”.
The film was nominated for two Academy Awards, winning Best Original Song for ‘Glory’, performed by John Legend and Common. The song, which was written specifically for the film, was performed at the Oscars ceremony that year.
The film was also nominated for Best Picture, marking an important milestone for Black filmmakers, as Ava DuVernay became the first Black woman to direct a film nominated for the top Oscar category.
It also won the Golden Globe for Best Original Song, and Oyelowo earned a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama. Additionally, the film received nominations at the BAFTAs, Critics’ Choice Awards, and Screen Actors Guild Awards.
Selma (2014) is now available to stream on BBC iPlayer.