But his most immediate assignment is Selma, a drama about the civil rights marches led by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and others in 1965, which he will direct.

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His biggest problem, Daniels told Gaby Wood, is that King is "next to Jesus. So how do I make him human . . . ?" The challenge he faces, he said, is this: "We know King was a hero, so how do I tell the story? By telling truths that we're disturbed by. It challenges me as a film-maker, and as a man."

Daniels' commitment to telling disturbing truths has defined his career as a filmmaker thus far, and is likely to continue to do so.

After 16 years as lovers, Daniels and Hopkins separated in 2009, but they continue to work together and to co-parent their children, of whom they share joint custody. They live in New York City.

Since cinema began, Hollywood has been fascinated with finding ways of representing homosexuality.

Gay, lesbian, and bisexual film directors have been a vital creative presence in cinema since the medium's inception over one hundred years ago.

Queer characters were a crucial component of the film noir landscape, part of the genre's challenge to complacent American values.

Spanish director Pedro Almodóvar's gay and transsexual themed films present absurd situations framed by the trappings of everyday life.

Activist and author Keith Boykin has committed his life to advancing the rights of the African-American and glbtq communities and to enhancing communication between them.

Bisexual African-American novelist, poet, and performance artist Sapphire came to public attention with works that focus on the harrowing realities of inner city existence.

A director, writer, producer, and photographer, John Waters became well known in the early 1970s through his filmic collaboration with actor--and drag queen--Divine.