The Loving Story

About The Loving Story

Released in 2012, 'The Loving Story' is a gripping documentary that offers an in-depth look at the life and legal battle of Richard and Mildred Loving, a couple who were arrested in Virginia for the crime of interracial marriage. The arrest led to a legal battle that would end at the U.S. Supreme Court in 1967 with the landmark decision in Loving vs. Virginia, which declared laws against interracial marriage unconstitutional. The film is a poignant record of an important milestone in the civil rights movement in the United States.

Making / Production

The film was directed by Nancy Buirski, who also served as a producer alongside Elisabeth Haviland James. The production companies involved include HBO Documentary Films and The Loving Story LLC.

Actors

• Nancy Buirski - As the director and producer, Nancy is the driving force behind the film, meticulously capturing the historic legal struggles of the Lovings.
• Richard Loving - The film utilizes archival footage to showcase Richard Loving's quiet strength during the ordeal, which set a precedent for forthcoming generations.
• Mildred Loving - The archival footage also highlights Mildred’s courage and resilience, providing insight into her unwavering commitment to her family and civil rights.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The Loving Story is based on real-life incidents and court battles, which ended in the historic Loving v. Virginia Supreme Court decision.
• The documentary includes rare archival footage which brings the Lovings to life, as well as interviews with key figures involved in the case and the Lovings' life.

Awards

The Loving Story won a Peabody Award in 2012. In addition, it was nominated for several other prestigious awards, including an Emmy Award for Outstanding Historical Programming.

Quotes

• "We may lose the small battles but win the big war." - Richard Loving
• "I am not a hero, I am just a man. The real heroes are the people who are willing to stand up and take action." - Richard Loving

Music / Soundtrack

• The film's minimalist score, composed by David Majzlin, provides an emotional and evocative backdrop to the Lovings' story.