Paramount Pictures has released the first trailer for their documentary, Rest in Power: The Trayvon Martin Story.
The six-part series will highlight the life and untimely demise of the young Florida teenager who was killed in 2012. Executive produced by Jay-Z, the series draws inspiration from several books, including the memoir Rest in Power: The Enduring Life of Trayvon Martin. This book was written by Martin’s parents.
With this series, the audience is given a first-hand look into the Martin family home. You’ll see home videos, pictures, and interviews with the people who knew him best. Along with news clips, we will also hear from those affected by his death, including Carmelo Anthony, Rev. Al Sharpton, Angela Davis to name a few.
Trayvon’s death made headlines across the globe after he was fatally shot by George Zimmerman. Zimmerman claimed the 17-year-old attacked him although no weapons were found on Martin’s body, just Skittles, and ice-tea. Sadly, his death was included in a string of deaths in which unarmed black men ended up dead, eventually giving life to the Black Lives Matter movement.
The family attorney, Lisa Bloom wrote Suspicion in 2012 which detailed Zimmerman’s trial and acquittal. Her book was also used as inspiration.
Jay-Z has remained critical of Martin’s demise, referencing it in some of his most vocals. “Since the Kalief doc, they’ve been at my neck. Y’all can tell ’em Trayvon is comin’ next,” said Hov on “Black Effect.”
Had he lived, Trayvon Martin would have been 23 years old this year. Catch Rest In Power: The Trayvon Martin Story premieres Monday, July 30 at 10 p.m. on Paramount Network.
