It doesn’t hit theaters until Christmas Day, but critics are already in love with "Selma," the civil rights drama directed by Ava DuVernay. On Monday, the American Film Institute released its best-of-the-year list of filmslist and included "Selma" among its 11 choices.

The African-American Film Critics Association also lauded the film, placing it atop their list of the year’s best films. It also named DuVernay for its best director prize, while the best actor prize went to David Oyelowo (who plays King) and John Legend’s and Common’s song "Glory" won the their pick for best song.

"Our members found the output of cinema released this year to be a truly insightful mix of titles that reflect the world we live in. The members of AAFCA were especially pleased with this range of storytelling supported by the studios that gave voice to the many sides of the experience of black people in America and around the world," AAFCA president Gil Robertson said, according to The Hollywood Reporter. "We had a lot to pick from this year from Belle, Dear White People, Top Five, Timbuktu and Selma and hope the industry will continue to provide a platform for diversity on the big screen."    

(h/t The Hollywood Reporter)