Selma
HistoryDrama
13+PG-13
2014·2h 8m·Ava DuVernay·Plan B Entertainment·● Script read & verified
This biographical drama follows Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s 1965 campaign for voting rights in Selma, Alabama. The film depicts the strategic planning, peaceful protests,...
Best watched together — Complex historical and political themes benefit from discussion and context
Heads Up for Parents
The film includes authentic period language including racial slurs that may require discussion
What's In It
Violence
Very Mild▸
Language
Very Mild▸
Scary
Very Mild▸
Romance
Very Mild▸
Substances
None▸
Stimulation
Mild▸
Cultural & Values Guide
Faith & Religion
●Christian themes
The film depicts Dr. King and the civil rights movement as deeply rooted in Christian faith, with church scenes, prayers, and explicit references to God's justice being central to their mission and motivation.
Values & Themes
●Traditional family values
The film emphasizes Dr. King's commitment to his wife and children despite enormous pressure, and portrays the strength he draws from family bonds as essential to his leadership and moral courage.
Community Notes
- Some historians have noted creative liberties taken with certain historical details and conversations
Family Takeaways
What it gets right
- ✓Shows the strategic planning and sacrifice required for social change
- ✓Demonstrates the power of nonviolent resistance and moral courage
- ✓Illustrates how ordinary people can create extraordinary change
Cast:David OyelowoCarmen EjogoTom WilkinsonGiovanni RibisiTim Roth