Synopsis
The focus of this documentary is on the last few years of Martin Luther King’s life, as hisactivism moved beyond the struggle for civil rights to encompass the other progressive battlesof his era. There’s a real richness here in terms of documentary footage of the man himself andinterviews new and old with those who were close to him.
Audio
The dialogue here is crisp and clean, with no distortion, sibilance, or other such issues (I amreferring here,…of course, to the new interviews — older footage is very much at the mercy of thatmaterial’s condition). There are some restrained surround effects from the 2.0 track that add abit of atmosphere to the presentation.
Video
The picture quality, naturally, varies according to the source material. The transfer is justfine, though, and the new interviews look great: sharp, with strong colours and flesh tones, andno grain. The aspect ratio is even anamorphic widescreen, which is a nice touch.
Special Features
The only extra here is an interview with director Orlando Bagwell (basically, this is amaking-of featurette with a serious tone). The menu is basic.
Closing Thoughts
Another nicely presented documentary from PBS. It may not be flashy, but it isinteresting.
Special Features List
- Interview with Orlando Bagwell
