A critically acclaimed 2014 historical drama climbed streaming charts following a related national holiday, becoming a success just one day later. Historical dramas have depicted plenty of important events throughout history, many of which are real events that had an important impact on the world. Some of the best historical drama movies of all time include Steven Spielberg’s Schindler’s List, Mel Gibson’s Braveheart, and some reflecting more modern events, such as Black Hawk Down. These films have stood the test of time as important parts of film history as a whole.

However, there have also been movies about particular instances in American history that have proven to be important and timely. This includes stories about civil rights, everything from the 2013 biopic 12 Years a Slave, to the 2013 drama Lee Daniels’ The Butler. These films underscore the regrettable elements of the United States’ history, but continue to resonate because of the historical injustices that continue to permeate society. It’s also important to remember history, something many did with their engagement of one particular streaming film this week.

Selma Becomes A Timely Streaming Success

The Movie Managed To Make On Streamer’s Top 10 This Week

Now, Selma has become a streaming success, just one day after Martin Luther King Jr. Day in the United States. Released in 2014, the film follows the efforts of multiple civil rights activists, most notably Martin Luther King Jr. (David Oyelowo), during the Selma to Montgomery marches in 1965, where activists marched in support of black voting rights, which were being suppressed by segregation. Reviews for Selma offered the movie critical acclaim, earning a 99% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes. It was later nominated for Best Picture and won Best Original Song, “Glory,” at the Oscars.

Now, FlixPatrol reports that Selma is the Number 5 movie in the United States on Paramount+ as of January 21, 2025, just one day after Martin Luther King Jr. Day. In just a single day, the historical drama managed to surpᴀss Transformers One, Jack Reacher, Finestkind, Smile 2, and Jack Reacher: Never Go Back. It launched into the Top 10 just under Henry Danger: The Movie, The Painter, Gladiator, and the Number 1 film on the platform, Top Gun: Maverick.

What Selma’s Streaming Popularity Says About The Civil Rights Movie

There’s Timely Interest In The Topic

The streaming popularity of Selma isn’t too surprising, since Martin Luther King Jr. Day likely influenced its popularity in the United States. Civil rights continue to be a major topic of discussion across the country, something that will no doubt permeate conversations and media as real-world efforts continue. While many historical dramas have broached the topic before, the Oyelowo-led movie is an impressive addition to the conversation, thanks to its message and presentation.

Source: FlixPatrol