42

This isn't a perfect film, but it's entertaining and inspiring -- and, by most accounts, historically accurate. Director Brian Helgeland definitely pulls a bit too hard at the heartstrings with slow-motion shots of little children and audiences watching Robinson play. As a result, 42 frequently teeters on the brink of being overly sentimental. Boseman gives a fine, subtle performance as an amazing athlete, a loving husband and father, and a man who knows how to restrain himself, responding to racists and critics on the field, not with his fists.

Ford's performance is over the top, but he believably portrays what drove Rickey's desire to integrate baseball: his business savvy (a black player meant more black fans) and his Christian principles (he's a Methodist who often compares Robinson's trials to those of Jesus). Ultimately, the biopic is about both men, not just Robinson, and the movie covers only those first two baseball seasons in Robinson's MLB career. Crowd pleasing and uncomplicated, 42 isn't likely to win Oscars, but it's a great pick for families with mature tweens and teens -- whether they love baseball or not.