Time Studios is teaming up with Stevie Wonder’s Eyes ‘n’ Sound for a new feature documentary that chronicles the musical, cultural, and political journey to make Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday a federal holiday.
Directed by Oscar nominee Traci Curry (Attica, Hurricane Katrina: Race Against Time), the currently untitled doc will spotlight Stevie Wonder’s personal connection to the movement, unpacking how his artistry became central to a years-long campaign that culminated in President Ronald Reagan signing the bill into law in 1983.
At the heart of the film is one of the most recognized songs in the world — “Happy Birthday.” While today it’s a celebratory anthem across cultures and age groups, many don’t realize it was originally written as a rallying cry to honor Dr. King’s legacy and push for a federal holiday in his name. The song first appeared on Wonder’s 1980 album Hotter Than July, and quickly became a movement soundtrack, underscoring marches, protests, and national efforts to make the holiday a reality.
“This is a documentary I can get behind,” Wonder said in a statement. “I’m excited to tell the story of the making of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. 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.”
Produced by Eyes ‘n’ Sound LLC and Time Studios, the doc will feature never-before-seen archival footage and Wonder himself, offering firsthand insight into the musical activism that helped shift American policy. The project comes at a time when current conversations around holidays and labor are making headlines — including recent commentary from political leaders suggesting the U.S. has “too many nonworking holidays,” which has sparked concern over what days could be on the chopping block.
Time Studios Co-Chair Lynne Benioff, who also serves as executive producer, added, “We’re 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.”