Colman Domingo is coming for that Oscar if the trailer for his new movie Rustin is any indication. The Netflix movie is based on Bayard Rustin’s life. He was an African-American leader and activist who fought for civil rights, socialism, and gay rights. And he was the architect for one of the most recognizable nonviolent marches in history: the March on Washington in 1963 with Martin Luther King Jr. at the center.
And in the first trailer for Rustin, Domingo absolutely embodies the activist. There’s a notable shift in the way that he carries himself and even his voice is different. The spot-on clothes and makeup department also matters as it makes it look like every part of this movie was given the love (and funding) they deserved. The movie is even more noteworthy when you take into consideration that Domingo himself is a gay man as well, giving this character an authenticity you rarely see in Hollywood because we often don’t get a chance as queer people to play ourselves.
Basically, Rustin was a must-watch when the first photos dropped. And it’s a must-watch now after the official trailer, giving this man who was forgotten by many because of his sexuality, a chance to get his flowers and recognition.
Read the synopsis below:
Rustin is the critically acclaimed film from director George C. Wolfe, starring Colman Domingo as Bayard Rustin. Architect of 1963’s momentous March on Washington, Rustin challenged authority and never apologized for who he was, but was forgotten despite making history. Rustin spotlights the man who, alongside Martin Luther King Jr., dared to imagine a different world and inspired a movement. The film features an all-star cast including Chris Rock, Glynn Turman, Jeffrey Wright and Audra McDonald.
Watch the official trailer for Rustin below:
Rustin premieres in select theaters this November and on Netflix on November 17.
