In December 2014, at the New York Premiere of 'Selma', Jessica and David Oyelowo made a grand entrance that marked the culmination of a seven-year journey to bring the acclaimed drama to the screen. 'Selma' chronicles the historic 1965 Selma to Montgomery voting rights marches led by Martin Luther King Jr., John Lewis, and Hosea Williams. The film's realization was largely due to the relentless determination of its star, David Oyelowo, who brilliantly embodies the role of Dr. King.
This remarkable saga, as depicted in the documentary 'Becoming King' by Jessica Oyelowo, sheds light on a convergence of dreams — David's unwavering commitment to realizing 'Selma', the enduring legacy of Dr. King, and the Oyelowos' shared passion for uplifting Black excellence. The documentary offers an intimate portrayal of David's journey, from his initial skepticism to embracing the role of a lifetime with unwavering faith and perseverance.
Through a blend of personal anecdotes and interviews with key figures in Hollywood, including Lee Daniels, George Lucas, Oprah Winfrey, and Ava DuVernay, the documentary unveils a series of seemingly serendipitous events that led to the fruition of 'Selma'. From the moment a spiritual voice urged David to portray Dr. King to the chance encounter that connected him with DuVernay, every twist and turn of this narrative unfolds with a sense of divine intervention.
David's steadfast belief in portraying Dr. King in a groundbreaking film and his enduring commitment to excellence have been constants in his career. From the record-breaking series 'Lawmen: Bass Reeves' to the poignant film 'A United Kingdom', his projects have often been marred by lengthy gestation periods. Yet, he views this journey as a testament to his personal superpower — a determination that values craftsmanship over expedience.
Reflecting on the challenges of bringing Black stories to the forefront in Hollywood, David emphasizes the importance of vigilance and tenacity. He underscores the power of excellence in combating prejudice and reshaping cultural narratives. Jessica echoes this sentiment, highlighting the role of trust and divine intervention in overcoming obstacles and realizing their shared vision.
In a world where storytelling is often shaped by dominant perspectives, Jessica's documentary stands as a testament to resilience and long-term commitment. It embodies a philosophy of embracing life's challenges and failures, viewing them as integral parts of a well-lived existence. David acknowledges the transformative impact of 'Selma' and how it is breaking barriers and enriching lives through its powerful storytelling.
Ultimately, the Oyelowos' journey, both on screen and behind the scenes, serves as an inspiration to pursue one's dreams relentlessly and to center marginalized voices in narratives that deserve to be heard. The power of storytelling, when wielded with excellence and integrity, has the ability to dismantle prejudices and pave the way for a more inclusive and empowering future. As Jessica aptly puts it, 'Why the heck not?'
