 In their way, the Lovings are as iconic a couple as those in Grant Wood’s American Gothic. In that painting a farmer (actually Wood’s dentist) stands — pitchfork in hand — gazing directly at the viewer. His wife — stern as a rock — gazes at him. It is a domestic American archetype. The man appears in charge, holding us off, maintaining his ground. He probably doesn’t talk much. His wife’s strength is obvious, and she has her eyes firmly fastened on him. With simplicity and grace, Nichols updates that stereotype. Loving celebrates the passion and courage of two people who, by doing what was right for them, established justice for generations to come. READ FULL REVIEW |