Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is more than just a holiday; it’s an opportunity to reflect on the enduring struggle for civil rights, justice, and equality.
While the presidential inauguration holds political significance, dedicating this time to honoring Dr. King’s legacy can provide a more personal and meaningful experience.
One powerful way to do this is through film. Movies have the unique ability to transport us into history, share untold stories, and inspire us to envision a better future.
Whether you’re revisiting classic portrayals of the Civil Rights Movement or discovering modern films that resonate with Dr. King’s ideals, these nine movies offer thought-provoking, emotional, and empowering perspectives.
From historical dramas to thought-provoking documentaries, these selections will not only honor Dr. King’s memory but also deepen your understanding of the ongoing fight for justice.
So, grab some popcorn, gather your Frens, and dive into these cinematic tributes to Dr. King’s vision.
Let’s explore nine films that inspire action, reflection, and hope.
Becoming King (Paramount+)
An emotional portrait of David Oyelowo’s journey to play legendary civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Featuring behind-the-scenes footage and intimate home videos, Becoming King is a story of faith, friendship and a destiny fulfilled.
Selma (Paramount+)
Selma is the story of a movement.
The film chronicles the tumultuous three-month period in 1965, when Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. led a dangerous campaign to secure equal voting rights in the face of violent opposition.
The epic march from Selma to Montgomery culminated in President Johnson (Tom Wilkinson) signing the Voting Rights Act of 1965, one of the most significant victories for the civil rights movement.
Director Ava DuVernay’s SELMA tells the real story of how the revered leader and visionary Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (David Oyelowo) and his brothers and sisters in the movement prompted change that forever altered history.
Genius: MLK/X (Prime Video)
The newest installment of the Genius franchise, GENIUS: MLK/X, focuses on iconic civil rights era geniuses Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X.
All The Way (Max)
Bryan Cranston stars as President Lyndon B. Johnson in the dramatic story of his tumultuous first year in office in this HBO Films feature.
Anthony Mackie stars as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Selma, Lord, Selma (YouTube)
In 1965 Alabama, an 11 year old girl (Jurnee Smollett) is touched by a speech by Martin Luther King, Jr. (Clifton Powell) and becomes a devout follower.
But her resolution is tested when she joins others in the famed march from Selma to Montgomery.
Rustin (Netflix)
Rustin is the critically acclaimed film from director George C. Wolfe, starring Colman Domingo as Bayard Rustin.
Architect of 1963’s momentous March on Washington, Rustin challenged authority and never apologized for who he was, but was forgotten despite making history.
Rustin spotlights the man who, alongside Martin Luther King Jr., dared to imagine a different world and inspired a movement.
The film features an all-star cast including Chris Rock, Glynn Turman, Jeffrey Wright and Audra McDonald.
I Am MLK Jr. (Prime Video)
I Am MLK Jr. tells the story and celebrates the life of an American icon.
The documentary features interviews with civil rights-era activists such as Rev. Jesse Jackson, Ambassador Andrew Young, Congressman John Lewis and Rev. Al Sharpton.
It also features contemporary writers, activists and influencers in sports entertainment and media such as Van Jones, Carmelo Anthony, Nick Cannon, Shaun King, Malcom Jenkins and more.
King In The Wilderness (Max)
This documentary follows Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during the last few years of his life, from the vital role he played in the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to his assassination in 1968.
Boycott (Max)
When Rosa Parks (Iris Little-Thomas) defiantly refuses to take a back seat, she sets into motion a tumultuous string of events centered around the 1955 bus boycott in Montgomery, Alabama.
Using archival footage to establish the strained atmosphere of the era, this dramatization of that chapter of the Civil Rights Movement’s history shows her interactions with such major figures as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (Jeffrey Wright), Coretta Scott King (Carmen Ejogo) and Ralph Abernathy (Terrence Howard).
As we honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, it’s important to remember that his vision of justice, equality, and love calls us to action every day.
Watching these films is more than a way to reflect on his life—it’s an invitation to engage with the values he championed and to continue the work he started.
Whether you’re revisiting pivotal moments in history or discovering new perspectives on the fight for civil rights, these movies offer powerful reminders of the progress made and the work still left to do.
So, as the credits roll, let the stories inspire you to carry Dr. King’s dream forward in your own unique way.
Happy MLK Day!
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