History has a habit of dehumanizing the most legendary figures. We forget that all heroes and legends began as ordinary people. The 2014 film Selma reminds the public that Dr.King and his struggles were human. 

           The film Selma written by Paul Webb and directed by Ava DuVernay tells the story of Martin Luther King Jr. and the historic 1965 Selma, Alabama march. The events of the film take place over three-months. It begins with the preparation and events that lead to the Selma march. Then carries on to the major events, and the fallout/consequences.  

           The film opens with four separate scenes that set the time for the audience. First, Dr. King accepts his Nobel Peace Prize, four young black girls die in a church bombing, a black woman attempts to vote and is denied. Finally, we see Dr. King sitting in a meeting with President Johnson. 

           This section of the film serves as the audience’s first introduction to King and the weight on his shoulders. Similar scenes are scattered throughout the film to emphasize the feelings that King felt. The duality of a man that must maintain the image of an unshakeable leader.   

            The biggest tool that DuVernay uses to reinforce the human struggle of King and the events of the film is through camera work. 

           In moments of high tension, characters and events are either centered in the frame or close-up shots. This strategy allows the audience to see every emotion through the eyes of the characters. DuVernay also decides to use wide and aerial shots to film the Selma march. Forcing the audience to watch all the violence at once. There is no single isolating shot, mass violence is filmed to reinforce the chaos and fear the people felt. 

           This story could not be told without convincing performances from the cast. Portraying real people is a difficult task. All the cast members submit excellent performances, but the relationship between King and his wife Coretta stands out. 

          David Oyelowo plays King as a man struggling with his perceived and true image. To the public, he is a hero of almost god-like importance to the cause. While in private, he is just as scared, doubtful, and angry as anyone. Oyelowo leans into these emotions and delivers a performance of a lifetime. 

           Carmen Ejogo as Coretta is central to the story. Through her performance, the audience sees the stress on King and his family. She is a strong and moral character on her own but is forced to deal with the hatred directed at her husband. At the same time, she is what holds Dr. King down. She a tether that reminds him that he is human. 

Selma tells a familiar story through a new lens. Never has there been an opportunity to observe King and his struggles in such a graphic way. Everyone is told the story of the battle for Civil Rights in the United States, but very few understand the truth. The pain, agony, and stress that these people felt. DuVernay and Webb delivered a biopic powerhouse that is sure to remain relevant for generations.