Watch JD Lawrence's Martin, Malcolm and Me

JD Lawrence's Martin, Malcolm and Me is a thought-provoking drama which takes a fresh look at the complex relationship between the two figures most closely associated with the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s - Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. Set in contemporary times, the film follows the life of JD Lawrence, an African American playwright, whose perspective has been shaped by his own personal experiences and by his deep admiration for both leaders.

The film employs a unique interwoven structure where the narrative moves back and forth between the past and present, revealing Lawrence's transformative journey. The film opens with an electrifying performance by Lawrence himself, playing Martin Luther King Jr. in his famous "I Have a Dream" speech. It quickly becomes apparent that Lawrence's portrayal of King is not just an act; it's clear he has a deep reverence for the civil rights leader.

However, as the film unfolds, we are introduced to Lawrence's complex relationship with Malcolm X, which is informed by Lawrence's own experiences of growing up in the inner city of Philadelphia. While King and his message of nonviolent resistance provided a beacon of hope for Lawrence and his community, Malcolm's message of black empowerment through self-defense resonated with Lawrence on a different level. He found inspiration in the tough-talking, uncompromising stance of Malcolm X, who urged black Americans to take matters into their own hands to achieve equality.

Lawrence's struggle to reconcile these two opposing viewpoints provides the emotional core of the film. We see Lawrence grappling with the question of how best to honor both King and Malcolm's legacy in his own life's work. As he struggles to reconcile the two, he begins to see that he has much in common with both leaders. Like King, he seeks to inspire others through his art but also like Malcolm, he wants to empower them to take control of their own destinies.

The film is further elevated by the standout performances of the talented cast, including Tony Terry as Lawrence's best friend, who portrays a powerful scene in which he embodies Malcolm X giving his famous "Ballot or the Bullet" speech. The supporting cast is also notable, bringing a depth and authenticity to their roles, particularly in the flashback scenes where we see a young Lawrence and his community grapple with racism and police brutality.

Overall, JD Lawrence's Martin, Malcolm and Me, while it does not attempt to rewrite history, presents a fresh, contemporary take on the legacy of two important figures in the Civil Rights Movement. The film prompts viewers to reflect on their own relationship with these complex figures and the issues of race and injustice that still confront us today.