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The Jackie Robinson Story (NR, 1950)

common sense media says

Movie's main asset is that Robinson plays himself.

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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this movie is forthright about the racial issues but inevitably appears somewhat naive by today's standards.

Violence & scariness: Not applicable.
Sexy stuff: Not applicable.
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
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What to talk about

Talk to your kids

Families can talk about other sports figures who have overcome prejudice.

What's the story?

What's the story?

Jackie Robinson plays himself in this baseball biopic, which chronicles Robinson's story from his college days as a UCLA sports star to a stint in the Army and his success in the Negro Baseball League. Intent on integrating baseball, Branch Rickey -- the general manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers -- brings Robinson on to a minor league team. Robinson endures racism for two years, and Rickey puts him in the big league in 1947. Robinson helps the Dodgers win the championship, paving the way for integration.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

For Black History Month, take a look at this neglected gem about the first black baseball player to play in the major leagues. The primary appeal of this movie is that Robinson plays himself (with Ruby Dee as his wife). It is forthright about the racial issues, but inevitably appears somewhat naive by today's standards.

Movie themes & details

Movie Details
Studio: Legend Films
Director: Alfred E. Green
Cast: Jackie Robinson, Minor Watson, Ruby Dee
Genre: Documentary
Run time: 76 minutes
Theatrical release: May 16, 1950
DVD release: March 6, 2001
MPAA Rating: NR
This review was written by Nell Minow
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

maceymacreary
adult
 
What It Was Like..Almost
A lot of children growing up today don't have any idea how it was for African-American people within the past half century. I think all races agree that we have made progress, but a lot still has to be done. The more aware we are of what our behavior was like then might change some attitudes about other races, creeds and religons that exisit today.
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