John Lewis: Get in the Way

John Lewis: Get in the Way is a compelling documentary film released in 2017, featuring influential personalities such as Juanita Abernathy, Bernard Lafayette, and the lionized Civil Rights champion himself, John Lewis. Unveiling the narrative of one of the most enduring figures in the cause for civil liberties and providing an insightful foray into the past, the film is a moving tribute to the indispensible contributions made by John Lewis and his contemporaries in their fight against racial discrimination.

The film capitalizes on an intimate narration style and an expert blend of archival footage and contemporary interviews. It meticulously charts out the life and times of John Lewis where he is more than just a participant. He is an indomitable spirit driving the change.

A congressman who had remained at the forefront of Civil Rights activism since the 1960s, John Lewis is a paragon of perseverance and dedication. The movie delves into his involvement in the peak years of the Civil Rights Movement – the lunch counter sit-ins in Nashville in 1960, the Freedom Rides in 1961, the 1963 March on Washington, and the gruesome Selma to Montgomery marches of 1965. It's framed through the lens of Lewis's philosophy, "get in the way," empowering a revolutionary era of non-violent struggle against racial inequality.

Auchored by significant interviews with key figures and fellow activists like Bernard Lafayette, an accomplished leader in the Civil Rights Movement, and Juanita Abernathy, whose husband Ralph Abernathy was a closely allied with Martin Luther King Jr., the film orchestrates an insightful commentary to mirror Lewis's unflinching commitment.

Lafayette's contributions weave a tapestry of his camaraderie with Lewis in coordinating the Freedom Rides and their unyielding stand against deeply entrenched racism. On the other hand, Abernathy's perspective sheds light on her encounters with Lewis while breathing life into the Birmingham Campaign of 1963 and the Selma Voting Rights Movement of 1965. These testimonials and dialogues play a crucial role, adding depth and a human touch to the historical narrative, enabling the audience to connect with the heroism of that era on a more personal and emotive level.

Director Kathleen Dowdey's expert narrative style charts the tumultuous journey of Lewis's life from his humble beginnings on an Alabama sharecropper's farm through his emergence as a pivotal figure in the Civil Rights Movement and finally, his long-standing public service as a U.S. Congressman. She hallucinates Lewis's courage and tireless advocacy through a resonant biographical lens, nurturing an authentic and intimate portrait of a man who never hesitated to stir the pot for the right cause.

The documentary also does not shy away from displaying the faith that was put into test many a time. It offers an unvarnished view of Lewis's numerous arrests and immeasurable sufferings, standing as a testament to his enduring commitment to justice and equality.

John Lewis: Get in the Way renders its viewer with an awe-inspiring account of personal sacrifice, ceaseless exertion, and an unswerving sense of right in the face of all odds. It is more than just a biographical chronicle – it is an emotive journey through the landscape of racial segregation and a powerful testament to the spirit and resolve of those who, in their quest for justice and equality, decided to "get in the way".

In a world where the struggle for equality and human rights is more pertinent than ever, this film serves as a potent reminder of our collective history and the significant battles waged by brave trailblazers like John Lewis. This film undoubtedly provides the audience with a comprehensive understanding and appreciation of Lewis's lifetime of service, depicting him not just as a symbol of heroism and bravery, but also as a symbol of a continued fight against injustice. It underscores the significance of resilience, courage, and the power of peaceful protest in shaping history and bringing about social reform.

In conclusion, John Lewis: Get in the Way is both an emotional roller-coaster ride and an enlightening chronicle that goes beyond the life of one man to encapsulate an era that forever changed America. It is a vital viewing for anyone interested in history, civil rights, and the concept of "getting in the way". The film culminates as a tribute to a fearless political leader who always had the courage to fight and make a difference, no matter the costs.