Harsh Reality.

Rating: 9/10 (14 January 2016)

Selma (2014): Dir: Ava DuVernay / Cast: David Oyelowe, Carmen Ejogo, Tom Wilkinson, Oprah Winfrey, Tim Roth: True story account of the historical march in Selma lead by Martin Luther King, Jr. Set in the mid 1960's when African Americans still struggled with racial crimes in the South. King is a pastor seeking help from President Lyndon B. Johnson to pass a bill that allows African Americans the right to vote. King riles the spirits around him yet his encouragement and leadership is met with brutality from locals and law enforcement armed with tear gas, guns and clubs. Director Ava DuVernay does a spectacular job at capturing the period including a bombing scene shot in slow motion. The march is riveting as King dares to face the opposition guarding the far end of the bridge. David Oyelowe gives a powerful performance as King who believes what he preaches and stands up for what is right but suffers much to change history. Tom Wilkinson plays off the frustration of President Johnson with a touch of amusement as he walks the line between pleasing King and the American people. Thankfully he proves that his power can indeed make for a better future. Carmen Ejogo plays King's supportive yet frustrated wife who wonder how much longer this can go on. Oprah Winfrey plays an elderly woman who has weathered the physical and emotional pains of racism yet still stands strong. Tim Roth plays Governor George Wallace who is strongly oppose to the bill being passed. The result is a powerful film flawed only with some forced stereotypes but prevails with the news that one man can lead a march over top of racism and hate crimes. Score: 9 / 10