LOS ANGELES, CA — Netflix recently released film Rustin starring Colman Domingo gives an interesting perspective on the life of Bayard Rustin and his significant place in not only Black History in the United States — but also his impact on world history.
Domingo truly embodied the character of Rustin and gives the audience an opportunity to feel the emotions, understand the mind state, and comprehend the physicality of what he endured during a very turbulent time in our country.
Those viewing the film for the first time will learn what Rustin meant to the Civil Rights movement of the 1960’s, and the imperative nature of organizing thousands of people for change. Rustin is rarely mentioned in United States history books, especially considering the importance of his work with the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.(played by Aml Ameen), and his sexuality. Throughout the film, many of his enemies weaponize his homosexuality against him. Rustin was brilliant enough to use that which was meant to destroy him as a way to uplift — all while staying focused on the movement at hand.
Domingo peeled back the layers of a often times complex man for the audience to view, agree or disagree with him throughout the film. Rustin’s battles for freedom were many— including those with the divisive Adam Clayton Powell (Jeffrey Wright), J. Edgar Hoover, and Strom Thurman. The film showcases the levels between Rustin’s personal love life, and political stances that allow the separation between him and Dr. King. This separation was in part due to the opposition he faced from NAACP’s Roy Wilkins (Chris Rock). Years passed before Rustin made peace with what he experienced—and eventually made an appearance at King’s home in Atlanta. He made a choice to focus on the mission instead of his own thoughts, pain, and ideals. After reuniting and rekindling his friendship with Dr. King, Rustin felt a sense of relief, and was able to focus more on getting ready for the historic March on Washington.
His intensity and posture allowed those whom he graced with his presence to understand the passion and seriousness he had in changing this country for the better.
Although Rustin played an instrumental part of the movement and the March On Washington, several key figures were omitted from the story who stood next to Dr. King. Including, Andrew Young, Ralph Albernathy, and Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee leader — Kwame Ture (formerly known as Stokley Carmichael.) In one of the most monumental scenes in the film, Dr. King and Rustin had an in depth conversation in an office where Rustin thought he would no longer be able to organize after his lifestyle became public. Rustin emphatically told King, “we do the work of our oppressors by doing the work ourselves.
“On the day I was born Black, I was also born homosexual… they either believe in freedom and justice for all or they do not.”
In the following scene, Rustin returns to the office with the sounds of typewriters clicking, plans being made, and travel plans being organized. Viewers see a sense of accomplishment come over his face as he moves throughout the building.
Domingo’s Rustin character is extremely captivating, while delivering a lustrous and earnestness that allowed the audience to remain connected with him throughout the film.
Near the end of the film and after the success of the March on Washington, civil rights leaders who were involved were invited to the White House by President John F. Kennedy. Wilkins (Chris Rock) told Rustin he was far more valuable than a trash collector, while Rustin reminded him that there nothing wrong pick up trash.
However, the film neglected to show didn’t show that Rustin did not attend because go because refused to accept the terms of the agreement Kennedy offered the initial group.
RUSTIN is definitely a must see film as Domingo gives an amazing award worthy performance. The film also stars Glynn Turman, CCH Pounder, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, Johnny Ramey, Michael Potts, Lilli Kay, Jordan-Amanda Hall, Adrienne Warren, and Audra McDonald.
The film is directed by George C. Wolfe and is in select theaters and currently playing on Netflix.
*I give the film 8.5/10.
