This documentary film reveals an emotional portrait of David Oyelowo’s seven-year journey portraying legendary civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Photo courtesy of Auburn State Theatre

AUBURN, CA (MPG) - Cinema at the State Presents Becoming King Thursday, Feb. 19 at 7 p.m. at Odd Fellows Lodge #7, 1226-1/2 Lincoln Way.

This documentary film reveals an emotional portrait of David Oyelowo’s seven-year journey portraying legendary civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in the 2014 film SELMA, showing his faith, perseverance and the challenges of embodying such an iconic figure. Directed by David’s wife, Jessica Oyelowo, this film follows David from his humble beginnings in Nigeria to the long, grueling road toward the role of a lifetime and a destiny fulfilled.

“Becoming King” features behind-the-scenes footage, intimate home videos and interviews with friends and mentors like SELMA Director Ava DuVernay, Lee Daniels, George Lucas, and Oprah Winfrey. David Oyelowo was the NAACP Image Awards winner for his role in SELMA, as well as a nominee for BAFTA, Golden Globe® and SAG awards. 

A Q&A with film director Jessica Oyelowo follows the film via Zoom. Doors open at 6 p.m. and run for an hour and 6 minutes. Admissions tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and kids 11 and under (includes $2 fee). Tickets can be purchased at AuburnStateTheatre.org or 530-885-0156