Important Film But not Great

Rating: 6/10 (19 February 2015)

This is an important film to watch because of the content, but as for the movie quality, it isn't a great film, in my opinion. Go see the movie for the significance of the time, but don't get your hopes up for a "Best Picture".
The film is not as much about Martian Luther King Jr. as it is about the Selma March, even though it clearly delves into MLK's emotional struggles during this time. The Selma March, black people fighting for their right to vote in the south, is one of the most disturbing moments in history, and this film portrays that. Director Ava Duvernay wanted to focus on "small moments" and I believe that is what she did. But the screenplay had serious pacing problems and many long, drawn out scenes that were unnecessary.
The acting, for the most part was great. David Oyelowu, as Martin Luther King Jr. was surprisingly moving. Oyelowu has always been great in his many small supporting roles but here he steps out to the front and shines.
Tim Roth was creepy as hell as George Wallace, the Governor of Alabama. I always applauded all his acting efforts, but can't think of any as creepy as this role. He played it well.
I was also surprised at how well Tom Wilkinson did portraying Lyndon B. Johnson, the 36th president. In my mind it doesn't seem to work but Wilkinson was flawless.