In 1946, Jackie Robinson (Chadwick Boseman) was launched to forefront of history when legendary Brooklyn Dodgers GM Branch Rickey (Harrison Ford) signed him, breaking Major League Baseball’s infamous color line making both men the object of public derision. Facing unabashed racism from every direction, Jackie was forced to demonstrate both courage and restraint. In a famous exchange between Jackie and Rickey, Rickey asked Jackie if he would be able to face racial animus without incident. Aghast, Jackie asked, “Are you looking for a negro who is afraid to fight back?” Rickey responded that he needed a negro player “with guts enough not to fight back.” Instead, Jackie, #42, let his talent do the talking, ultimately winning over fans, silencing his critics and paving the way for others to follow, in the end, proving that one man’s life could have a profound influence on American culture. 42, the movie, takes its title from Jackie’s uniform number — which the MLB subsequently retired across the league to mark the 50-year anniversary of Robinson’s first game in 1997.
David Germain of the Associated Press writes, “With an earnest performance by Chadwick Boseman as Robinson and an enjoyably self-effacing turn by Harrison Ford as Brooklyn Dodgers boss Branch Rickey, 42 hits every button you expect very ably. It riles with its re-creations of the heartless, ignorant racism to which Robinson was subjected. It uplifts with its depictions of Robinson’s restraint and fortitude. It inspires with its glimpses of support and compassion from teammates and fans.” HSX predicts that 42 will earn around $17M in its opening weekend.
To watch additional trailers, download media and enter a sweepstakes for a chance to win prizes (including a PS3) visit the official 42 website.
Photos by Warner Bros. Pictures and Elite Daily.
Rating: PG-13 // Genre: Biography, Drama, Sport // Runtime: 2 hr. and 8 min. // Starring: Chadwick Boseman, T.R. Knight and Harrison Ford // Directed by: Brian Helgeland // Written by: Brian Helgeland // Produced by: Warner Bros. Pictures