Selma

Selma

Year: 2014

Runtime: 128 min

Language: English

Director: Ava DuVernay

BiographyDramaHistory

In the midst of lingering racial tensions, Alabama's voting laws remained a formidable barrier for African Americans seeking equality. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s courageous crusade against discrimination ignites a pivotal march from Selma to Montgomery, culminating in President Lyndon Johnson's historic signing of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

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Timeline & Setting – Selma (2014)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Selma (2014). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1964

The events of the film unfold in the pivotal year of 1964, a time marked by widespread civil unrest and the fight for African American voting rights in the United States. The period saw significant national attention on the struggles against systemic racism and oppression, encapsulated by protests and violent resistance in the South. This era is critical in shaping the future of civil rights legislation.

Location

Selma, Alabama, 16th Street Baptist Church, Edmund Pettus Bridge, Montgomery

The movie predominantly takes place in Selma, Alabama, a focal point of the civil rights movement in the 1960s. The 16th Street Baptist Church is a significant site, marking a tragic chapter in history with the loss of young lives due to racial violence. The Edmund Pettus Bridge symbolizes both the struggle for voting rights and the resilience of the movement, leading to Montgomery, where the culmination of protests is voiced at the State Capitol.

📍 Locations 🏛️ Historical Sites

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 18:56

Main Characters – Selma (2014)
Meet the key characters of Selma (2014), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (David Oyelowo)

Dr. King is portrayed as a passionate and steadfast leader committed to the fight for civil rights. His persuasive leadership style and moral conviction inspire others to join the struggle for voting equality. He embodies resilience and dedication, navigating political challenges while advocating for peaceful resistance.

✊ Leader 📖 Advocate 🎤 Orator

Annie Lee Cooper (Carmen Ejogo)

Annie Lee Cooper is depicted as a determined woman who faces systemic barriers in her quest to register to vote. Her character illustrates the personal struggles endured by many African Americans during this era, highlighting her courage and perseverance in the face of injustice. She represents the voices of those marginalized and fighting for their rights.

💪 Determined 🗳️ Activist ❤️ Brave

President Lyndon B. Johnson (Tim Roth)

President Johnson is characterized as a pragmatic leader focused on multiple national issues, sometimes at odds with the urgent needs voiced by Dr. King. His interactions reflect the complexities of political power during the civil rights movement, revealing the challenges of enacting lasting change against deep-rooted opposition.

🏛️ Politician 📈 Strategic 🤝 Diplomatic

Coretta Scott King

Coretta Scott King is portrayed as a supportive yet concerned partner, providing emotional strength to Dr. King amidst the chaos. Her character represents the sacrifices made by families in the fight for civil rights and showcases the personal cost of activism. She reinforces the need for solidarity and strength within the movement.

❤️ Supportive 👩‍👧‍👦 Family 💪 Empowering

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 18:56

Major Themes – Selma (2014)
Explore the central themes of Selma (2014), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

✊ Social Justice

The theme of social justice is central to the narrative, emphasizing the fight against racial inequality and the struggle for voting rights. The film showcases the tireless efforts of activists who risked their lives to challenge oppressive systems and push for systemic change. It reflects the passion and courage of those who rally for their rights and inspire future generations in the quest for equality.

⚖️ Civil Rights

The film encapsulates the concept of civil rights, focusing on the pressing need for African Americans to have the equal right to vote. It delves into the systemic barriers they faced, effectively highlighting the struggles of individuals and communities against marginalization. The depiction of marches and protests illustrates a collective yearning for justice and fairness in a deeply divided society.

💔 Sacrifice

Sacrifice is a profound theme portrayed in the movie, as characters confront life-threatening dangers for the sake of justice. The film highlights the tragic loss of lives, including that of activist James Reeb, showcasing the cost of the fight for equality. It serves as a reminder of the dedication and willingness to endure hardship for the greater good, driving the message of resilience and hope.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 18:56

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