Backs Against the Wall: The Howard Thurman Story

Backs Against the Wall: The Howard Thurman Story is a 2019 documentary film that explores the life and legacy of Howard Thurman, an influential African American theologian, scholar, and civil rights leader. The film features interviews with scholars, colleagues, and friends of Thurman, including Keith David, Martin Doblmeier, and Walter Earl Fluker.

The film starts by providing some background on Thurman's early life, growing up in segregated Daytona Beach, Florida in the early 20th century. From a young age, Thurman was aware of the racism and inequality that surrounded him, and was determined to do something about it. He was an avid reader and an excellent student, and eventually went on to earn degrees from Morehouse College, Rochester Theological Seminary, and Haverford College.

Throughout his career, Thurman was a tireless advocate for social justice and equality. He was one of the first African American pastors to integrate his congregation in San Francisco, and he later became a key leader in the civil rights movement, working closely with figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Mahatma Gandhi. Thurman's work as a theologian and scholar was also groundbreaking - he was one of the first African Americans to earn a PhD from a major American university, and he wrote extensively on topics like mysticism, spirituality, and the connections between Christianity and other religions.

Despite facing numerous obstacles and setbacks throughout his life, including discrimination and financial difficulties, Thurman remained committed to his beliefs and worked tirelessly to make the world a better place. The film does an excellent job of capturing Thurman's spirit and energy, using interviews with his friends, family, and colleagues to provide a nuanced and multifaceted portrait of this remarkable man.

In addition to its powerful story, Backs Against the Wall: The Howard Thurman Story is also a visually stunning film. The filmmakers use a variety of techniques to bring Thurman's story to life, including archival footage, original paintings, and beautiful landscapes. The film is shot in a variety of locations, from Thurman's childhood home in Florida to the hills of India where he met with Gandhi, and the cinematography is consistently breathtaking.

Overall, Backs Against the Wall: The Howard Thurman Story is an inspiring and powerful film that should be required viewing for anyone interested in the civil rights movement, social justice, or the history of American religion. The film does an excellent job of capturing Thurman's spirit and energy, and it serves as a valuable reminder of the important work that still needs to be done to create a more just and equitable world.