I watched Rustin and I liked it. 3.5/5
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Rustin is a powerful, inspiring biographical drama that shines a light on one of the most influential but often overlooked figures in the civil rights movement—Bayard Rustin. Directed by George C. Wolfe, the film focuses on Rustin’s journey as he organizes the historic 1963 March on Washington, showing the struggles he faced as a gay Black man working in the spotlight of American activism. With strong performances and an insightful narrative, Rustin captures both the triumphs and challenges of an unsung hero, even if it occasionally follows a familiar biopic formula.
Colman Domingo delivers a standout performance as Bayard Rustin, embodying the activist with charisma, passion, and vulnerability. Domingo’s portrayal brings a fascinating complexity to Rustin, capturing his resilience, wit, and unwavering belief in nonviolent protest. He shows us Rustin’s fearlessness not only in challenging institutionalized racism but in owning his identity as an openly gay man in a time when such openness was rare and often dangerous. Domingo’s performance is magnetic, grounding the film and giving Rustin’s story the emotional heft it deserves.
The supporting cast adds further depth to the narrative. Chris Rock appears as Roy Wilkins, while Glynn Turman plays A. Philip Randolph, each depicting the tensions and camaraderie within the movement’s leadership. Audra McDonald and Jeffrey Wright bring gravitas to their roles, helping to illustrate the many complex relationships Rustin had with other civil rights leaders. Each of these interactions sheds light on the challenges Rustin faced not only from society but from within the movement itself, as he faced prejudice due to his sexual orientation.
Wolfe’s direction and the film’s polished production design vividly recreate the period, capturing both the energy and tension of the 1960s civil rights era. The scenes leading up to the March on Washington are especially powerful, showing the behind-the-scenes work, negotiations, and sacrifices that went into making the march possible. The film also does an admirable job of balancing the political with the personal, taking time to explore Rustin’s relationships, struggles, and moments of joy without detracting from his achievements. The visual storytelling and use of archival-inspired shots immerse the viewer in a time of transformation and unrest, making the era feel authentic and immediate.
Where Rustin occasionally falters is in its adherence to the traditional biopic structure. The film follows a fairly straightforward trajectory, and some scenes feel predictable or overly polished, softening the rough edges of Rustin’s life. Given Rustin’s rebellious spirit and complex identity, it would have been interesting if the film had taken more risks in its storytelling to reflect the unorthodox life of its subject. There are moments when the narrative feels like it’s skimming the surface of Rustin’s multifaceted legacy, touching on key events without delving as deeply into their broader implications.
Nonetheless, the film’s depiction of Rustin’s impact is inspiring, particularly in its portrayal of his relentless pursuit of justice in the face of adversity. The film doesn’t shy away from showing how Rustin’s sexuality was used against him, even by some of his allies, and how he remained committed to his beliefs despite the personal cost. His resilience and commitment to the cause, even when asked to step aside for the movement’s “greater good,” make his story both heartbreaking and empowering.
The score and music choices add to the film’s emotional resonance, enhancing key moments and giving weight to Rustin’s journey. The final scenes, set against the backdrop of the 1963 March, are especially moving, serving as a reminder of Rustin’s lasting contributions to the civil rights movement and his influence on generations to come.
In the end, Rustin is a respectful and heartfelt tribute to a man who defied limitations and stayed true to himself, paving the way for future generations of activists. While it may follow a familiar path, the film’s message and Domingo’s captivating performance make it a worthwhile watch. Rustin serves as both a history lesson and a celebration of courage, capturing the legacy of a man whose work helped change America.