Is King: A Filmed Record... Montgomery to Memphis Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1970)

📖 The Core Premise

With the release of King: A Filmed Record... Montgomery to Memphis (1970), audiences are invited back into the world of Documentary. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "A presentation of key events in the life of civil rights activist Martin Luther King Jr. Beginning with the 1955 bus boycott in Montgomery, Alabama, MLK is followed through major steps in his struggle to promote racial equality. Including footage of King's stirring speeches, it is a fitting tribute to his legacy, and features clips narrated by a wide range of celebrities, including Harry Belafonte, Paul Newman Charlton Heston, Ruby Dee, Burt Lancaster, Anthony Quinn, Walter Matthau, Ben Gazzara, Clarence Williams III, Joanne Woodward, and James Earl Jones."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. Martin Luther King Jr. shines in a role that demands both nuance and gravitas, elevating the material significantly. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good Documentary. While there are moments of brilliance, the pacing occasionally dips.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is King: A Filmed Record... Montgomery to Memphis worth your time? If you appreciate Documentary films that take risks, this is likely a must-watch. However, if you are looking for a flawless masterpiece, you might find some plot points predictable.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, King: A Filmed Record... Montgomery to Memphis is a solid addition to the genre. With a runtime of 185 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Definitely Watch.