*A new feature documentary from Time Studios and Stevie Wonder’s Eyes ‘n’ Sound will highlight the music icon’s pivotal role in the campaign to make Martin Luther King Jr. Day a federal holiday.
Directed by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Traci Curry, the untitled film traces the cultural, political, and musical efforts that led to President Ronald Reagan signing the holiday into law in 1983. At the heart of the story is Wonder’s 1980 song “Happy Birthday,” from his album “Hotter Than July,” which he wrote to rally public support for the cause, Deadline reports.
The documentary will include rare archival footage and feature Wonder himself, offering firsthand insight into the movement and his personal connection to it.
“I’m excited to tell the story of the making of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday,” said Wonder, who will produce the film.
“More importantly, I want us to learn and remember this story with today’s eye and understanding. If we truly understood how this bill came to be, then we will really appreciate the power of the people,” he added.
Time Studios’ Co-owner and Co-Chair Lynne Benioff, an executive producer on the project, added, “We are honored to help bring this important chapter of history to light and to work with Stevie Wonder in telling the story of how his artistry and activism helped shape a national movement.”
“We believe this film will spark meaningful conversations about the profound impact one person’s voice and vision can have on our culture and world,” Benioff added.
The production promises to illuminate Wonder’s activism and the collective effort behind a landmark achievement in American history.
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