Unveiling the Electrifying Performance: Colman Domingo’s ‘Rustin’ Brings a Forgotten Hero to Life

A Telling Premiere at Telluride

When "Rustin," a film chronicling the life of civil rights activist Bayard Rustin with remarkable clarity and conviction, premiered at the Telluride Film Festival a few weeks ago, it garnered enthusiastic reception – albeit a bit on the polite side. For many, this cinematic journey unveiled the life of a man who has often been overlooked in history books. Yet beneath the appreciation lies a pertinent question: Could this tumultuous life have been portrayed with a touch more chaos, a tad less restraint?

By-the-Numbers Biopic with a Purpose

"Rustin" may seem like a by-the-numbers biopic, but its creators, notably the production company Higher Ground, founded by Barack and Michelle Obama, are deeply committed to two significant numbers. The first is "250,000," representing the estimated crowd that gathered at the historic 1963 March on Washington, where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech. The second number is "nine," signifying the months that elapsed between that peaceful protest and the enactment of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. According to the film, these two events are inextricably linked.

Rustin, who spearheaded the Washington march, is brought to life by director George C. Wolfe ("Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom") and screenwriters Julian Breece and Dustin Lance Black. Their focus in the film remains primarily on the intricacies of organizing, the negotiations, and the compromises needed to gather a couple hundred thousand "angelic troublemakers," as Rustin would call them, on the National Mall. This approach results in the movie carrying a substantial load of exposition, extensive monologues, and stirring oratory. For better or worse, "Rustin" seems destined to have an extensive quotes page on IMDb. But sometimes, such depth is a necessary part of the story.

Colman Domingo: A Dynamic Force

If there’s one thing the film isn’t short of, it’s dialogue – and plenty of it at a heightened level of intensity. And who better to have on your team when it comes to passionate conversation than Colman Domingo, who portrays the title character with remarkable fervor? When we are introduced to Rustin, he’s a dynamo – sleeves rolled up, tie askew, and eyes ablaze. In a room with Martin Luther King, played with quiet authority by Aml Ameen, it’s Rustin who commands attention.

Rustin boldly declares that he was born Black but also "born a homosexual," a significant revelation considering the time period and his standing in society.

A Thrilling Portrayal

In "Rustin," Colman Domingo takes center stage, infusing the film with electrifying energy and presence. His portrayal of Bayard Rustin, a pivotal yet often overshadowed figure in the civil rights movement, is nothing short of thrilling. Domingo’s remarkable dynamism and the film’s focus on the march and legislative accomplishments give viewers a fresh perspective on Rustin’s pivotal role.

"Rustin" may be a biopic that adheres to a certain formula, but it’s a formula that works effectively in showcasing the life of a remarkable activist. With Colman Domingo’s powerful performance at its core, this film brings ‘Rustin’ to life, thrillingly, ensuring that the story of Bayard Rustin will not be forgotten.

Colman Domingo’s Resonating Performance

Who is ‘Rustin’ Starring Colman Domingo?

• "Rustin," a Netflix film, is directed by George C. Wolfe, a recipient of both Tony and DGA awards.
• The film stars Colman Domingo, an Emmy-winning actor, in the role of a remarkable Civil Rights activist.
• Colman Domingo’s character leads the historic 1963 march on Washington, D.C., and significantly, he portrays a queer figure in the Civil Rights movement.
• On August 28, marking the 60th anniversary of the demonstration, the teaser trailer for "Rustin" was unveiled.

In this powerful cinematic portrayal, Colman Domingo takes on the role of Bayard Rustin, a pivotal yet often overshadowed figure in the civil rights movement, making "Rustin" a film of historical and cultural importance.

Who is Colman Domingo?

• Colman Domingo is set to take on a groundbreaking role in an upcoming film directed by the highly acclaimed George C. Wolfe, a three-time Tony Award winner and recipient of the DGA Award.
• The film revolves around the pivotal events of the 1963 March on Washington, where Colman Domingo plays the central character, portraying the driving force behind this historical demonstration.
• Notably, this performance marks a significant milestone in Colman Domingo’s career as it represents his first leading role in a feature film.

With this exciting opportunity, Colman Domingo showcases his versatility and talent as an Emmy-winning actor, promising a captivating and memorable portrayal in this forthcoming cinematic endeavor.

Does Domingo Wear a Second Skin in ‘Rustin’?

• Colman Domingo, a versatile awards contender known for his remarkable performances in television, stage, and film, including "Euphoria," "The Scottsboro Boys," and "Selma," brings his passion to the forefront in the film "Rustin."
• In his role, Domingo seamlessly embodies the character, wearing it like a second skin, which is a testament to his virtuosity as an actor.
• His portrayal of Bayard Rustin is captivating, and viewers will find it impossible to divert their attention from his compelling performance.
• Domingo’s approach is notable for refusing to idealize Rustin as a saint but instead portrays him as a man with a powerful mission.

Colman Domingo’s performance in "Rustin" is a testament to his extraordinary talent, making the character of Bayard Rustin come to life with authenticity and depth.

Why Did Domingo Refuse to Play Rustin in March on Washington?

• Colman Domingo’s portrayal of Bayard Rustin in "Rustin" is characterized by his refusal to depict Rustin as a saint, opting for a more nuanced portrayal that emphasizes Rustin as a man driven by a profound mission.
• The decision to avoid idealizing Rustin adds depth and authenticity to the character’s representation.
• The complexity of Rustin’s character is rooted in historical events, such as his forced resignation in 1960 when the idea for the March on Washington is initially proposed.
• Rustin’s resignation comes as a result of a stinging reversal, instigated by the threat of outing Rustin as gay by Rep. Adam Clayton Powell, portrayed by the outstanding Jeffrey Wright.

Colman Domingo’s deliberate approach to portraying Rustin in "Rustin" ensures a more genuine and multifaceted depiction of this pivotal historical figure.

What is Colman Domingo’s Role in ‘Rustin’?

• Colman Domingo, renowned for his remarkable performances, takes on a significant role in ‘Rustin.’
• While he is recognized for star turns as Mr. Franklin and a German performance artist, Mr. Venus of Berlin, in the Tony and Drama Desk Award-winning musical ‘Passing Strange,’ directed by Annie Dorsen on Broadway and documented on film by Spike Lee.
• In ‘Rustin,’ Domingo’s role is that of the central character, Bayard Rustin, a pivotal figure in the civil rights movement who led the 1963 March on Washington.

Colman Domingo’s versatility as an actor is showcased in his portrayal of Bayard Rustin, adding depth and authenticity to this historic character.

Who is Colman Domingo in ‘Rustin’?

• Colman Domingo, a celebrated actor known for his remarkable performances, takes on a significant role in the film "Rustin."
• In this cinematic work, he portrays the character of Bayard Rustin, a pivotal figure in the civil rights movement.
• Alongside him in the image is Glynn Turman as A. Philip Randolph, contributing to the film’s ensemble cast of talented actors.

Colman Domingo’s portrayal of Bayard Rustin is a notable highlight of "Rustin," promising a compelling and historically significant performance.

What Does Domingo Say About Rustin?

• In his portrayal of Bayard Rustin in the film, Colman Domingo exudes debonair charm, playfulness, wit, and passionate intensity.
• Domingo’s performance is utterly captivating, reflecting the perfect alignment of exceptional material with a remarkable performer.
• One memorable moment in the film sees Rustin being told that he is "irrelevant" during an after-work gathering by a more militant activist, illustrating the complexities of his character and the challenges he faced.

Colman Domingo’s portrayal brings depth and authenticity to the character of Bayard Rustin, making the film a compelling exploration of this civil rights icon’s life and challenges.

Is Colman Domingo a Dynamo?

• In the film "Rustin," Colman Domingo’s presence is nothing short of dynamic.
• As we are introduced to Rustin, Domingo exudes energy and passion, with sleeves rolled up, tie askew, and eyes ablaze, making him a captivating dynamo.
• His portrayal of the title character adds a powerful and electrifying dimension to the film, especially in scenes characterized by extensive dialogue and heightened intensity.

Colman Domingo’s portrayal as Bayard Rustin in "Rustin" showcases his dynamism as an actor, contributing to the film’s overall impact and authenticity.

What Makes Domingo a Great Character?

• Colman Domingo’s portrayal in "Rustin" is marked by his thrilling performance.
• He embodies the character with an unwavering sense of self-acceptance, unburdened by societal judgments of shame.
• Domingo’s depiction exudes authenticity, with a bright smile that proudly displays a gap in his teeth, a powerful symbol of resilience resulting from a police beating endured during a bus protest.

Colman Domingo’s portrayal of Bayard Rustin in "Rustin" is a testament to his ability to bring depth and authenticity to a character who embodies courage and defiance in the face of adversity.