Jackie Robinson film resonates with baseball fans and civil rights activists

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The story of Jackie Robinson’s triumph over segregation in Major League Baseball has never received the Hollywood treatment. Thankfully, there’s "42" — the new Robinson biopic from filmmaker Brian Helgeland.

"42" comes 66 years after Robinson’s MLB debut — a time when so many young baseball fans don’t know the struggles and triumphs of the sport’s greatest trailblazer.

The film covers the two year time span from 1945 to 1947, culminating with Robinson’s signing to the Brooklyn Dodgers.

"42" is filled with extremely talented actors that give exceptional performances.  Newcomer Chadwick Boseman tackles the role of Robinson, while Hollywood favorite Harrison Ford plays Dodgers’ owner Branch Rickey.  Boseman is a perfect fit for the role of Robinson.  His dynamic performance captures Robinson’s courage to fight back, but true strength not to. 

A scene that highlights the racism surrounding Robinson both on and off the field is when Robinson must wake up in the middle of night to escape an angry mob hoping to punish him for changing the all-white game of baseball. 

At times the film skimmed over several important topics. However, the script is crafted with a respect and reverence for Robinson that audiences can’t ignore.

What truly resonates on-screen is Robinson’s resilience and strength in the face of racial discrimination. The key players in Robinson’s life get full attention, too. Nicole Beharie plays Robinson’s wife Rachel.  She gives a strong performance that conveys the chemistry and love shared between the lifelong couple.

It’s hard to find movies that cause audiences to leave theatres feeling inspired, but that’s just what "42" does. It’s an uplifting film that highlights the greatness of a true American hero.