The story of Jackie Robinson is brought to life in the movie
42. This film was exceptionally done
as it told the story of the many people who helped desegregate baseball, and
the people who were against it. The film featured a large ensemble cast, many
of which I was not familiar with their work before this movie. It was written
and directed by Brian Helegland, known for L.A.Confidential, Robin Hood and Man on Fire. The film was very emotional
as it reflected on how Jackie not only changed the game, but also many people’s
attitudes.
The film is partially narrated by Wendell Smith (Andre Holland), a reporter from Pittsburgh and later a close friend of Jackie. It is
later discovered that Wendell’s narration is an article he’s writing on Jackie.
The film opens with Branch Ricky’s (Harrison Ford) announcement to members of
his staff that he plans to sign a black player to the Brooklyn Dodgers. This is
met with some resistance but the search for the player will be begins. At the
time, Jackie Robinson (Chadwick Boseman) is playing with the Kansas City
Monarchs, the best team in the Negro League. The film follows Jackie’s
conversation with Branch and his rise from the Montreal Royals to the Brooklyn
Dodgers. The film also explores his home life with his new wife Rachel (Nicole Beharie). It also stars Christopher Meloni as Leo Duroucher. The film shows a
lot of the resistance that Jackie faced with his move to the big league.
42 has very strong
language. In many scenes, Jackie and his teammates are verbally attacked because
of his presence on the team. While the film has very little violence, Jackie
does receive some hard hits from opposing teams. This film presents a look at
the struggles of breaking the color line in baseball and the history behind the
seasons leading up to Jackie’s rookie year with the Dodgers. I think the film
did a wonderful job analyzing why Jackie was chosen, as to other players.
Jackie Robinson was a phenomenal player, but the chosen player could not fight
back against the racist attacks. Additionally, 42 addressed the Lou Durocher’s role in helping the Dodgers accept
Jackie and his suspension from baseball. This was an in-depth look at tough
time in America’s history.
This film was great all around. I even have to give credit
to the effects department for recreating the now demolished Ebbet’s field. This
will be award-winning film. I expect to see it nominated for the top prizes,
even this far out from awards season. The cast was had great chemistry and I
hope that Boseman, Meloni and Ford will be recognized for their work. At times,
I a skeptical of the writing in sports films, but Helgeland wrote a great film
with no cheesy dialogue. This is a must see for any sports or history fan. I
definitely recommend 42 to anyone
looking for something to see this weekend.
