Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a respected public speaker and one of history’s greatest heroes. He fought against police brutality, economic equality, capitalism, and racism until his dying breath. His life and work live on, and MLK films often recount them. Half are historical documentaries, while the other half are theatrical interpretations. Either way, they all pay homage to the revolutionary man and entertain the masses.
3. Boycott
The made-for-TV MLK film Boycott dramatizes events associated with the Montgomery Bus Boycott. This HBO flick merges vintage newsreel footage with scenes from public and private dramas. It essentially grants viewers a look at happenings that existed beyond the public’s eye. Such aspects include the personal emotions, domestic struggles, and unseen conflicts of those involved. It even emphasizes the consequences of moral choices and how to confront them. Boycott features famous activists like Rosa Parks and Ralph Abernathy alongside Dr. King.
Adapted from the book Daybreak to Freedom, this MLK film possesses a phenomenal cast. Jeffrey Wright portrayed Dr. King, with Abernathy played by Terrence Howard. Carmen Ejogo represents Coretta Scott King, while Iris Little Thomas depicts the revolutionary Parks. Other stars in the movie include CCH Pounder, Shawn Michael Howard, and Reg E. Cathy. This biographical drama acquired a Peabody Award for refusing to let history fade away. It also received a NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Television Movie, Mini-Series, or Dramatic Special.
2. King: A Filmed Record … Montgomery to Memphis
King: A Filmed Record … Montgomery to Memphis is a documentary constructed from archived footage. Produced by Ely Landau and Richard Kaplan, it showcases Dr. King’s rise to crusade leader. Viewers are granted front-row seats to his work during the Civil Rights movement. They can also see him oppose the Vietnam War and economic injustice. A montage depicts him marching for equal housing in Chicago despite facing opposition. This three-hour MLK film unveils Dr. King’s visionary strategies and unequaled passion.
Alongside Dr. King’s exploits, this MLK film features moments from historical events. Audiences can witness the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the Freedom Rides, and the voting rights drive. The March of Washington, including Dr. King’s memorable speech, is showcased in sixteen minutes. Throughout this documentary, earnest statements from celebrities make an appearance. The list of icons includes Charlton Heston, James Earl Jones, and Paul Newman. This piece was nominated for Best Documentary and later joined the National Film Registry.
1. Selma
Taking the crown as the best MLK film is Selma from 2014. Directed by Ava DuVernay, it’s a biographical piece about Dr. King’s public and private lives. It also follows his effort to get the Voting Rights Bill approved in 1965. He faces opposition from Lyndon Johnson, white supremacists, and the Civil Rights Movement dividing. At the same time, Dr. King must address the marital issues with his wife, Coretta. This movie perfectly portrays him as a relatable human instead of a perfect public figure.
David Oyelowo takes up the mantle of Dr. King for the remarkable flick. He perfectly personifies the historical figure as a tired man weighed down by his responsibilities. Nevertheless, Oyelowo portrays him as a historically-renowned Civil Rights leader and icon. His acting prowess allowed him to win an Image Award for this role in 2015. Selma won countless other accolades and nominations in different fields and venues. These triumphs further prove that this biopic is the top MLK film.
Worth the Watch
I’m usually not a fan of historical films, but these MLK films sound very intriguing. If I had to choose only one to see, it would have to be Selma. Something about a humanized historical icon oddly appeals to me to sit and watch. I only know Dr. King as the civil rights activist leader, not the man. It would be fascinating to see what he was like behind the scenes. All three films are available on streaming services like Apple TV and YouTube.
