Watch King
- 1978
- 5 hr
-
8.0 (430)
King is a 1978 biographical movie based on the life of Martin Luther King Jr., the civil rights activist who dedicated his life to the fight against racial inequality in America. The movie is directed by Abby Mann and stars Paul Winfield, Cicely Tyson, and Tony Bennett. The movie is a moving and powerful portrayal of the life of Dr. King, from his early days as a student at Morehouse College to his rise as a leader of the Civil Rights Movement. Mann's direction effectively captures the essence of the period and the struggle of the black community.
The opening scenes of the movie depict the Montgomery Bus Boycott of 1955, which was initiated after Rosa Parks, an African American woman who refused to give up her seat on the bus, was arrested. This event was the beginning of the Civil Rights Movement and Dr. King emerged as a key player in the fight.
The film then delves deep into the life of Dr. King, portraying his inner struggles as a leader and his wife Coretta's constant support. Paul Winfield's portrayal of Dr. King is brilliantly executed, and he captures the essence of the man who inspired change through non-violent means.
Cicely Tyson's performance as Coretta Scott King is emotive, and she brings depth and nuance to the role of a supportive wife who stands by her husband's side even when he is faced with adversity. It is through her character that the audience is reminded that the fight for civil rights was not only waged by Dr. King but was also a collective struggle.
As the movie progresses, we see Dr. King and his fellow activists undertake numerous protests and marches, including the iconic Selma to Montgomery march. The movie does a great job of highlighting the dangers and violence that the activists faced, and the courage it took to stand up for what was right.
Tony Bennett's role as Judge Frank Minis Johnson Jr. was a welcome addition to the cast, and his performance adds an extra dimension to the movie. Judge Johnson played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement by ruling in favor of Dr. King and allowing the Selma to Montgomery march to proceed.
Overall, King is a brilliant biopic that sheds light on the life and struggles of one of America's most influential figures. It is a movie that manages to capture the essence of the Civil Rights Movement while remaining true to factual events.
The film's success is largely due to the performances of Winfield and Tyson, who bring a sense of authenticity to their roles. The movie also effectively portrays the challenges faced by the black community in their quest for equal rights and the bravery of those who took to the streets to fight for change.
In conclusion, King is a must-watch movie for anyone interested in the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. The film is a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up for what is right and the role that collective action can play in bringing about change.