In a piece of really cool news, Paramount Pictures will be distributing Ava DuVernay’s incredible film Selma to high schools throughout the country free of charge. The film which dramatically retells the events leading up to march from Selma to Montgomery is one of the most powerful films of the past decade. Sadly, it was also the target of smears during the Oscar season run, its historical accuracy and objectivity called into question by, well, morons. Those unfair accusations may have derailed the film’s awards chances, but great art transcends Hollywood politicking for Oscar votes. But this is another stellar campaign by the people at Paramount to use the film as a means to educate and enlighten – they have previously allowed student to see the film for free in theaters.
Any teachers who want to receive a copy of Selma and a companion study guide can go to http://bazaned.com.
Here’s the full press release:
HOLLYWOOD, CA (April 24, 2015) – In celebration of the home entertainment debut of director Ava DuVernay’s inspirational and Academy Award-winning epic “SELMA,” Paramount Home Media Distribution announced today that every high school in the U.S., both public and private, will receive a copy of the DVD free of charge. In addition, teachers can receive free companion study guides to help further illuminate the remarkable historical events depicted in the film.
“Our ‘SELMA’ filmmaking journey has had many highlights, but to me, the response from students and educators has been the most magnificent part of the experience. To think that this triumphant story of dignity and justice will be available to every high school in this country is a realization of many dreams and many hopes,” said director Ava DuVernay. “I applaud Paramount on this extraordinary effort, and salute the teachers who will provide classes and context on the work of Dr. King and his comrades to the young minds of our nation.”
“The response from students and teachers to our ‘Selma for Students’ initiative was overwhelmingly positive and we are delighted to be extending the campaign,” said Megan Colligan, president, Worldwide Distribution and Marketing, Paramount Pictures. “During the film’s theatrical run more than 300,000 young people were able to see the film for free. By providing DVDs to all of the high schools in the country, we hope to reach all 18 million high school students with the film’s powerful and inspiring story. With many of these students preparing to vote for the first time in next year’s elections, it is especially fitting that they witness the bravery and fortitude of those who fought to establish the Voting Rights Act of 1965.”
Teachers who would like to receive a copy of the “SELMA” companion study guide can visit http://bazaned.com.
“SELMA” won the Academy Award® and the Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song for “Glory” by Common & John Legend. The film was nominated for an Academy Award® for Best Picture and Golden Globe Awards for Best Picture, Best Actor and Best Director.
From Paramount Pictures, Pathé, and Harpo Films, “SELMA,” a Plan B, Cloud Eight Films, and Harpo Films production in association with Ingenious Media, tells the incredible story of how Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. led the epic march from Selma to Montgomery to secure equal voting rights in an event that forever altered history.
The film is produced by Christian Colson, Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner, and Oprah Winfrey. The film is executive produced by Brad Pitt, Cameron McCracken, Diarmuid McKeown, Nik Bower, Ava DuVernay, Paul Garnes and Nan Morales. The film is written by Paul Webb. “SELMA” is directed by Ava DuVernay.
“SELMA” is available now on Digital HD and will be available on Blu-ray™ and DVD May 5th.
