Watch John Lewis: Get in the Way

John Lewis: Get in the Way is a 2017 documentary film based on the life of civil rights leader and United States Congressman, John Lewis. The film is directed by Kathleen Dowdey and produced by Erika Alexander and Ben Arnon. The film chronicles the life of John Lewis, from his humble beginnings on a farm in rural Alabama, to his work organizing sit-ins and marches during the height of the civil rights movement in the 1960s, to his election to Congress representing Georgia's 5th district in 1986. Throughout the film, Lewis shares his personal experiences and reflections on the pivotal moments in his life and career.

The film features interviews with Lewis' family members, colleagues, and friends, including fellow civil rights activists such as Juanita Abernathy, Bernard Lafayette, and Andrew Young. Also featured are prominent political figures such as Eleanor Holmes Norton, Nancy Pelosi, and Harry Reid, who discuss Lewis' impact on American politics and society.

The film is structured around key moments in Lewis' life, beginning with his early work with the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) and his participation in the Freedom Rides, which challenged segregation on interstate buses. The film also covers Lewis' leadership in the 1965 Selma to Montgomery marches, which brought attention to the issue of voting rights for African Americans.

Throughout the film, Lewis' nonviolent philosophy and commitment to social justice are highlighted. Viewers are shown the challenges that Lewis faced throughout his life, including physical violence and arrest, as well as his dedication to nonviolent protest despite these obstacles.

One of the strengths of the film is its use of archival footage and photographs, which serves to bring the viewer into the heart of the civil rights movement. Scenes of peaceful demonstrators being brutally attacked by police and civilians help to illuminate the sacrifices made by activists like Lewis, who were fighting for a better future for all Americans.

The film also emphasizes the importance of grassroots organizing and political engagement, which Lewis has championed throughout his career. As a co-founder of the Voter Education Project, Lewis worked to register thousands of new voters in the South, paving the way for greater political participation by African Americans.

Overall, John Lewis: Get in the Way is a powerful and inspiring documentary that highlights the life and legacy of one of America's greatest civil rights leaders. Through its examination of Lewis' personal story and its broader focus on the civil rights movement, the film encourages viewers to take action in their own communities and work towards a more equitable society.

In conclusion, John Lewis: Get in the Way is a must-watch film for anyone interested in the history of the civil rights movement and the ongoing struggle for social justice in America. By showcasing the life and work of John Lewis, the film reminds us of the power of nonviolence and the importance of staying committed to social change in the face of adversity.

John Lewis: Get in the Way is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 53 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.7.