In order for an idea, a concept, to thrive among st the masses a cherished sport like Baseball must undergo change. America in 1945 was going through changes. We had just won our battle over fascism in World War II but back at home we were struggling to find an identity amongst all the civil unrest . A country that would be proud to celebrate the successes of those of many colored athletes and individuals were light years away.
Therefore...it would take just one man to show us the possibilities and promise of a thriving country of rapid change and growth . The one who would help bring out the Sandlot dreams and desires in the hearts of all young men and children of all nations .
That man will forever be known as Jackie Roosevelt Robinson
42 Directed by Brian Helgeland based most of his movie from the research that was based on Jackie Robinson's biography "I Never Had It Made" which I thought was a brilliant approach . It's brilliant because as soon as the film starts we are immediately thrusted into Jackie's world of the hated racial bigotry that was still plaguing our land .
Upon being signed by Brooklyn Dodgers manager Branch Dickey (Ford)
he knew he could no longer turn his back on the rising talents and abilities of a thriving Negro League that was heading into a collision course with MLB. It would take one man who would serve as its figurehead to open the doorway to the field of dreams for many colored athletes. In order for fantasy to become a reality he would have to undergo the trials and tribulations of becoming a pro baseball player amongst a racially divided country. We see wonderful examples of this play out in succession from his fellow teammates signing a petition to have him kicked off, he's constantly booed from the stands, pitchers take delight in beaning him, and none is more memorable than his clash with Philadelphia Phillies coach who constantly gets under his skin shouting "Hey Nigger, Nigger, Nigger".
The portrayal of Jackie Robinson was wonderfully cast selecting Chadwick Boseman
for the role who has a powerful screen presence for one who gives a penetrating stare that exemplifies one of courage and one of fear.
Let's not forget Harrison Ford's portrayal of Brooklyn Dodgers manager Branch Rickey who acts more like a Mickey to his Rocky who fights and sticks up proudly for his talented protege.
Yes he has a voice and presence that reminds one of Ebeneezer Scrooge but honestly he warms up to Jackie looking after his best interests like a father who wants nothing but the best for his son. Given Ford's age I would say he was meant more for these dramatic roles than of his action film flops as of late.
COME ON.......THIS IS NOT Harrison Ford anymore
But this...is more like it
Hey we all got to move on someday :)
In reality making a bio pic on a famous person is no easy task. You are constantly faced with the pressures of summing up the important events and accomplishments of one person within 2 hours at the max. Honestly, I think 42 does as good as job as most giving us a good insight look and idea of what he had to endure to bring out the love of baseball in all shapes, sizes, and colors.
It is because of his dream and his vision that today we still honor this man throughout all MLB every April 15th when players of all clubs don the famous #42
and to this day it reminds us that we are all equal as one blessed with the gifts and abilities to enjoy this wonderful National Past Time that we call baseball.
Every time I attend a game at Target Field to watch my Twins
and every time I hear TC the Maskot singalong to Journey's "Don't Stop Believin" during 6th or 7th inning
FINAL MOVIE RATING: 5/5
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