Occasionally, a film finds its anchor in the magnetic performance of a singular actor, and such is the case with Colman Domingo’s compelling portrayal in “Rustin.” This cinematic exploration delves into the life of Bayard Rustin, a gay civil-rights activist and influential confidant of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Rustin’s multifaceted identity as a pacifist, ex-convict, singer, lutist, and socialist unfolds against the backdrop of his pivotal role as the chief organizer of the historic 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.
Balancing reclamation and celebration, “Rustin” strives to thrust its subject into the forefront of the historical narrative, acknowledging the challenges Rustin faced as an openly gay man challenging societal norms and legal constraints. The movie distills Rustin’s rich and complex history, particularly focusing on the march, tracing its hurried conception to the awe-inspiring culmination on August 28, 1963, when a quarter million people gathered at the Lincoln Memorial. This monumental event stands as the defining public triumph of Rustin’s life.
Director George C. Wolfe, collaborating with writers Julian Breece and Dustin Lance Black, swiftly immerses the audience in the historical milieu. Set in 1960, the film opens with stoic protesters juxtaposed against vehement racists. King, portrayed by Aml Ameen, faces pressure to lead a mass protest against the Democratic National Convention. His reluctance is palpable, but Rustin, portrayed by Domingo, seizes the moment, presenting a compelling argument that resonates with strategic brilliance. Rustin’s impassioned plea successfully convinces King to take charge of the protest, setting off a chain reaction of political and social repercussions.
The narrative unfolds against a backdrop of intense stakes and significant personalities, with Rustin’s forceful advocacy earning him adversaries among establishment figures like Roy Wilkins (Chris Rock) and Adam Clayton Powell Jr. (Jeffrey Wright), who deliver performances that add depth and intensity to the unfolding drama. “Rustin” not only pays homage to a pivotal moment in civil rights history but also highlights the resilience and strategic acumen of a man who played a crucial role in shaping it.