There are many excellent, insightful – and permanently relevant – films dealing with civil rights in America. Here are some that I rate highly:
*
DOCUMENTARY – 13TH (2016)
Director Ava DuVernay eloquently argues that slavery has been perpetuated through mass encarceration, for profit as well as political gain – from both side of the aisle. It is powerful and eye-opening. Hoop Dreams makes for a good companion piece.
Rotten Tomatoes: 97% | Netflix.
**
HISTORICAL – SELMA (2014)
Another one from Ava, Selma is one of the most engrossing films of recent years, with David Oyelowo’s hypnotic performance as MLK among one the Academy’s most troubling oversights. A beautifully-executed history lesson.
Rotten Tomatoes: 99% | free streaming on all platforms for June.
***
ROMANTIC – LOVING (2016)
On the flip-side of MLK’s eloquence and grandiosity are Richard and Mildred Loving. A quiet and unassuming interracial couple, they just wanted to marry and have children, but had to go all the way to the Supreme Court to overturn primitive laws. Nuanced and lowkey, this drama nevertheless moves and soars, thanks to wonderful performances and delicate direction.
Rotten Tomatoes: 89% | Hulu.