Product Review

Backs Against The Wall: The Howard Thurman Story explores the extraordinary life and legacy of one of the most important religious figures of the 20th century. Born the grandson of slaves, Thurman became a "spiritual foundation" for the Civil Rights Movement, inspiring many of its leaders including Martin Luther King, Jr, Jesse Jackson and Congressman John Lewis. In the mid-1930s, Thurman was the first Black American invited to meet Mohandas Gandhi who shared his strategy of non-violent resistance. Gandhi suggested it would be through the African-American experience that the non-violence resistance movement could take on global significance. When Thurman returned to America, his writings and speeches planted the early seeds for the non-violent Civil Rights Movement. Thurman is also remembered for helping launch The Fellowship Church for All People in San Francisco, a pioneering venture to create the nation's first interracial, intercultural church community. Thurman was a gifted and prolific writer who authored more than 20 books and celebrated as one of the great preachers of his era. The film includes extensive archival film and photographs, plus interviews with civil rights leaders Jesse Jackson, Congressman John Lewis, Vernon Jordan and others. Backs Against The Wall is directed by Martin Doblmeier, the filmmaker for BONHOEFFER, The Power of Forgiveness, The Reinhold Niebuhr Story and other award-winning films. Thurman "helped establish the philosophical framework of how to struggle" -Jesse Jackson "I am convinced that Thurman is one of America's most important Christian thinkers and leaders."- Brian McLaren, author and spiritual activist " I am in awe of Martin Doblmeier's work" -Bill Moyers Journalist