"Rustin" is a film that ambitiously attempts to shine a light on the often-overlooked Bayard Rustin and his pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement. While the film admirably addresses themes of racism and homophobia both within and outside the Black community, its execution leaves much to be desired.
Colman Domingo delivers an exceptional portrayal of Bayard Rustin, embodying the activist's mannerisms and charisma with skill. Unfortunately, his performance is one of the few highlights in a cast that includes less convincing efforts, such as Chris Rock's portrayal of Roy Wilkins, which falls flat and adds little to a film already burdened by uneven supporting performances.
A major drawback of "Rustin" is its heavy-handed script. The film frequently resorts to turning Rustin into a mouthpiece for inspirational quotes, which, while uplifting, detract from exploring the deeper complexities of a man who was more than just a Civil Rights hero. This approach misses the opportunity to delve into the nuances of Rustin's character and the broader context of his activism.
The film does succeed in rightfully centering Black individuals in the narrative of the Civil Rights Movement. It also touches on the idea that influential white figures like JFK were motivated more by political pressure than personal conviction in their contributions to the movement. Additionally, the depiction of the police institution's deliberate attacks on the Black community is a poignant and necessary inclusion.
However, the film falters significantly in its portrayal of the iconic 1963 civil rights march. Director Wolfe builds tension and emotion in the lead-up to the march but fails to deliver a compelling depiction of the event itself. The recreation of Dr. King's "I Have A Dream" speech, in particular, pales in comparison to the real footage. The film's depiction of the crowd lacks the impact of actual newsreels or television footage, and the exclusion of Rustin's own speech on that day is a baffling oversight.
In conclusion, "Rustin" is a film that, while commendable in its intention to highlight a crucial figure in Civil Rights history, ultimately falls short in its portrayal. The film misses crucial aspects of Bayard Rustin the man, leaving viewers with a sense that something, or perhaps many things, are missing from this cinematic tribute.
Colman Domingo delivers an exceptional portrayal of Bayard Rustin, embodying the activist's mannerisms and charisma with skill. Unfortunately, his performance is one of the few highlights in a cast that includes less convincing efforts, such as Chris Rock's portrayal of Roy Wilkins, which falls flat and adds little to a film already burdened by uneven supporting performances.
A major drawback of "Rustin" is its heavy-handed script. The film frequently resorts to turning Rustin into a mouthpiece for inspirational quotes, which, while uplifting, detract from exploring the deeper complexities of a man who was more than just a Civil Rights hero. This approach misses the opportunity to delve into the nuances of Rustin's character and the broader context of his activism.
The film does succeed in rightfully centering Black individuals in the narrative of the Civil Rights Movement. It also touches on the idea that influential white figures like JFK were motivated more by political pressure than personal conviction in their contributions to the movement. Additionally, the depiction of the police institution's deliberate attacks on the Black community is a poignant and necessary inclusion.
However, the film falters significantly in its portrayal of the iconic 1963 civil rights march. Director Wolfe builds tension and emotion in the lead-up to the march but fails to deliver a compelling depiction of the event itself. The recreation of Dr. King's "I Have A Dream" speech, in particular, pales in comparison to the real footage. The film's depiction of the crowd lacks the impact of actual newsreels or television footage, and the exclusion of Rustin's own speech on that day is a baffling oversight.
In conclusion, "Rustin" is a film that, while commendable in its intention to highlight a crucial figure in Civil Rights history, ultimately falls short in its portrayal. The film misses crucial aspects of Bayard Rustin the man, leaving viewers with a sense that something, or perhaps many things, are missing from this cinematic tribute.