2014 Historical Drama Gains Popularity on Streaming Services After National Holiday

In 2014, a historical drama captured critical acclaim and recently witnessed a resurgence in popularity on streaming platforms, coinciding with a national holiday. Historical dramas have historically portrayed significant events, many of which left indelible marks on the fabric of society. Renowned films such as Steven Spielberg’s *Schindler’s List*, Mel Gibson’s *Braveheart*, and modern interpretations like *Black Hawk Down* have firmly established their place in cinematic history, showcasing pivotal moments that continue to resonate today.

Additionally, cinematic storytelling has tackled various crucial instances in American history, shedding light on pressing issues. From the struggle for civil rights, films like the 2013 biopic *12 Years a Slave* and Lee Daniels’ *The Butler* highlight the darker chapters of America’s past. These narratives not only reflect historical injustices but also serve as a poignant reminder of the ongoing challenges faced in society. Recently, public interest surged around one film particularly relevant to this theme.

Selma Achieves Streaming Success

The Movie Surges to the Top 10 on Streaming Platforms

David Oyelowo as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in Selma.

Following Martin Luther King Jr. Day in the United States, *Selma* has experienced a notable surge in viewership, swiftly climbing the streaming charts. Released in 2014, this film chronicles the determined efforts of civil rights activists, particularly focusing on Martin Luther King Jr. (portrayed by David Oyelowo). The narrative centers on the Selma to Montgomery marches in 1965, highlighting the fight for African American voting rights against a backdrop of systemic segregation. Garnering a remarkable 99% score on Rotten Tomatoes, *Selma* not only received critical acclaim but was also nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture and secured the Oscar for Best Original Song with “Glory.”

As of January 21, 2025, *Selma* has achieved the impressive feat of securing the Number 5 position among movies on Paramount+, according to reports from FlixPatrol. This surge in popularity came just one day after Martin Luther King Jr. Day. In a remarkable showing, the film outperformed franchises such as *Transformers* and *Jack Reacher*, only falling behind titles like *Top Gun: Maverick* and *Gladiator* in the streaming hierarchy.

While questions regarding the historical accuracy of *Selma* have arisen, the underlying messages it conveys remain significantly relevant today.

Insights from Selma’s Streaming Popularity

Growing Interest in Civil Rights Narratives

The renewed streaming interest surrounding *Selma* aligns closely with the observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, highlighting a communal reflection on civil rights issues. The film’s compelling narrative continues to foster dialogue in the United States, reaffirming its position as a significant cultural touchstone. As real-world civil rights discussions remain prevalent, the themes championed by this film will undoubtedly influence ongoing conversations and media representations. Although various historical dramas have explored similar topics, *Selma* stands out due to its powerful storytelling and impactful messages.

Source: FlixPatrol

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