42
starring Chadwick Boseman, Harrison Ford, Nicole Beharie, Christopher Meloni, Lucas Black and Dixie Walker
written and directed by Brian Helgeland
Rating: ♦♦♦♦♦
This is a biographical sports drama about the life of Jackie Robinson (1919-1972) and his history-making signing with the Brooklyn Dodgers under the guidance of team executive Branch Rickey. Robinson was the first player to be elevated from the old Negro league to the professional Major League in April 1947, breaking the color barrier and ending racial segregation in professional baseball. His jersey number was number 42.
The example of Robinson's character and unquestionable talent challenged the traditional basis of segregation, which then marked many other aspects of American life, and contributed significantly to the Civil Rights Movement.
In addition to his cultural impact, Robinson had an exceptional baseball career. Over ten seasons, Robinson played in six World Series and contributed to the Dodgers' 1955 World Championship. He was the recipient of the inaugural MLB Rookie of the Year Award in 1947, and won the National League Most Valuable Player Award in 1949—the first black player so honored.
The stubborn, in-your-face racism and copious use of the word “nigger” made me feel uncomfortable. I know a film is art, intended to elicit responses, and the actors are professionals performing their roles, but …