It’s a story Oprah Winfrey and friends brought to life on the big screen a couple of months ago.

However, no film will ever recapture the drama and conflict that was Bloody Sunday and the Selma to Montgomery march as vividly as the memories of those who lived it.

Some of those Foot Soldiers were recognized Thursday night during Mayor George Evans and the city council’s welcome reception. The event formally kicked off this weekend’s 50th anniversary commemoration of Bloody Sunday and the Selma to Montgomery marches.

“It’s not in a documentary. It’s not in whatever. It’s in my memory,” said Bernard Lafayette Jr.

Lafayette played a key role in the Freedom Rides of the early 1960s and was in Selma in 1965 working with the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee.

Selma City Councilwoman Angela Benjamin asked those who marched in 1965 to come on stage and be recognized.

“Don’t they look good? There is so much power on the stage,” Benjamin said. “This is the real deal.”

She also invited people to stand in for relatives who have died and referenced her own mother who has passed away.

“Smile for the cameras. This is your hour. It’s well-deserved,” Benjamin said.

Evans said he thought the event had great turnout. The Carl C. Morgan Center was filled to capacity as guests enjoyed snacks, music and fellowship.

“It says something good and how excited everyone is about Selma to turn out on a cold, cold night like this. I’m glad you’re here,” Evans said.

The reception might have officially kicked things off, but Alabama Department of Transportation crews worked all day to put up barriers for Saturday’s security.

President Barack Obama and his family, along with former President George W. Bush and his wife Laura, are expected to visit Saturday and deliver remarks from the Edmund Pettus Bridge at 1:30 p.m.

“I just hope everyone will be cheerful and happy. We are just going to try to work through anything that might happen,” Evans said.

Bejamin told the crowd to let the mayor or any council member know if they can be of any assistance.

“If we can do anything to make your stay more comfortable, let us know,” she said. “Tap us on the shoulder. We are approachable and friendly.”

Despite earlier reports, tickets will not be required for the President’s speech. However, access will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis. The secure perimeter is expected to reach capacity at around 20,000 people.

Guests will be required to enter at a security checkpoint near the intersection of Selma Avenue and Church Street. Access to the secure area will open to the general public at 8:30 a.m.

Those attending will be required to go through airport-like security. No bags, sharp objects, umbrellas, liquids or signs will be permitted. Overnight camping will not be allowed beforehand.

Despite the additional security and traffic concerns, organizers say this weekend will be a chance to be part of history.

“The 50th is a once in a lifetime event,” said State Sen. Hank Sanders.

UPDATED: President Obama speech is expected to now be at 1:30 p.m.