A One Mann’s Movies review of “Rustin” (2023).
Normally you find that the Best Actor Oscar and the Best Supporting Actor nominations go with “big” films. But occasionally, the Academy will recognise a performance that stands-out in an otherwise un-garlanded film. An example from last year would be Brian Tyree Henry for “Causeway“. Although it’s a very crowded field this year, I think it’s just possible that Colman Domingo might get a shot at Best Actor for “Rustin”. Since it is a standout performance from him.
Bob the Movie Man Rating:
Plot Summary:
The film is set from 1957 to 1963. A formidable organiser, Bayard Rustin (Colman Domingo) is fervant in the fight for civil rights, supporting his friend Martin Luther King Jr. (Aml Ameen). But he is also a homosexual. So, ironically, as well as facing discrimination based on race, he is also facing discrimination based on being gay – often from members of the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) including its leader Roy Wilkins (Chris Rock).
Certification:
UK: 15; US: PG-13. (From the BBFC web site: “Racism”. I’m not sure if this is the right call by the BBFC – – yes, there is obviously a theme of racism (including limited use of the n-word), but this is a film that would probably be valuable for 12+ children to watch).
Talent:
Starring: Colman Domingo, Chris Rock, Glynn Turman, Aml Ameen, CCH Pounder, Audra McDonald, Jeffrey Wright.
Directed by: George C. Wolfe.
Written by: Julian Breece & Dustin Lance Black. (Based on a story by Julian Breece).
Twitter Handle: #RustinMovie.
Running Time: 1h 46m.
The man himself and Colman Domingo’s immaculate portrayal. (Sources: wiki.com / Netflix).
“Rustin” Review:
Positives:
- Colman Domingo absolutely knocks it out of the park with his portrayal of the man. A superb, nuanced performance.
- This is a figure from history that I knew nothing about. I’d assumed that the rally at the Washington monument (where Martin Luther King delivers his famous “I Have a Dream” speech) just ‘happened’. But, of course, mobilising 250,000 people to turn up, as well as putting in all of the infrastructure and security to keep it peaceful, took a MASSIVE amount of organising. And Rustin was the organiser-in-chief. Seeing Rustin drive a brainstorming session with his staff is an inspirational thing to watch and should be shown in management training sessions.
- There are some terrific supporting performances in here. Chris (‘Slap-gate’) Rock has never been better in a serious role. And the ever-dependable Jeffrey Wright makes for a wonderful “boo-hiss” villain.
- The finale, mixing filmed footage with newsreel footage of the day, is well done and the rally remains a remarkably moving historical event.
- The end-title song – “Road to Freedom” by Lenny Kravitz – has Oscar nomination written all over it.
- The script has some terrific lines….
The day I was born black, I was also born homosexual. They either believe in freedom and justice for all. Or they do not.
Colman Domingo as Bayard Rustin.
Negatives:
- It was difficult for me to follow what was going on at times. Who was who among the different black associations. Some more explanation within the script might have helped.
- I mean… it’s all interesting and thought-provoking… but (other than Colman’s performance) it didn’t fully set my world on fire.
Having a wild dream. Martin Luther King (Aml Ameen) and Bayard Rustin (Colman Domingo) (Source: Netflix).
Summary Thoughts on “Rustin”
It’s not surprising that this film got made, given that Barrack and Michelle Obama were executive producers. Imagine them trying to ring you up for funding and you trying saying “no” to them! But this is a steady and worthy historical drama, based on real-events, that is well worth your time. It’s currently streaming on Netflix.
Where to Watch it (Powered by Justwatch)
Trailer for “Rustin”:
The trailer is here: https://youtube.com/watch?v=EuZ-UONInl4 .
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