Common Sense Media Review
By Sandie Angulo Chen
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Feel-good Jackie Robinson biopic is simplistic but positive.
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42
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 22 parent reviews
Based on 77 kid reviews
Kids say that the movie delivers strong anti-racism messages through the inspiring story of Jackie Robinson, showcasing both his struggles and triumphs as one of the first African American baseball players. However, many reviews note that the film contains strong language and instances of racism that may be inappropriate for younger audiences, so it's best for older kids and teens who can understand the historical context.
- inspiring story
- strong messages
- inappropriate language
- role models
- historical context
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In 42, in the aftermath of World War II, Brooklyn Dodgers general manager Branch Rickey (Harrison Ford) decides the time is right to recruit the first Black baseball player into Major League Baseball. After going through the stats on various noteworthy Negro League players, Rickey targets Jack "Jackie" Robinson (Chadwick Boseman), a 26-year-old player for the Kansas City Monarchs. Rickey offers Robinson a spot on the Dodgers' minor league team, the Montreal Royals, and then in 1947 officially gives him a place at bat with the Brooklyn Dodgers. With the support of his devoted wife, Rachel (Nicole Beharie), Robinson faces the racism of everyone from fellow players to umpires to opposing teams -- not to mention fans. But as he proves he's got what it takes to steal bases, hit homers, and score runs, teammates and fans have a change of heart.
Is It Any Good?
This isn't a perfect film, but it's entertaining and, by most accounts, historically accurate. But 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. Still, Boseman gives a wonderful performance as an amazing athlete, a loving husband/father, and a man who knows how to respond to racists and critics on the field, not with his fists.
Ford's performance is over the top and gets more screen time than strictly necessary for a biopic about a Black icon, but he believably portrays what drove Rickey's desire to integrate Major League 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, perhaps to its detriment. Crowd-pleasing and uncomplicated, 42 isn't likely to win awards, but it's a great pick for families -- whether they love baseball or not.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about 42's themes and messages. Why are Jackie Robinson's accomplishments so significant? Can you think of other athletes/public figures who've faced similar challenges?
How have profesisonal sports in the United States changed since the 1940s? Are some of the issues raised in the film still present?
Talk about the difference between a biographical film that covers an entire life and those that concentrate on one time period of a historical figure's life. Which do you prefer? Why?
Does this film have a "White savior complex"? If so, how could the filmmakers have avoided this pitfall?
How does Jackie demonstrate courage and self-control? Why are those important character strengths?
Movie Details
- In theaters : April 12, 2013
- On DVD or streaming : July 16, 2013
- Cast : Alan Tudyk , Chadwick Boseman , Harrison Ford
- Director : Brian Helgeland
- Inclusion Information : Black Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Warner Bros.
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : History
- Character Strengths : Courage , Self-control
- Run time : 128 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : thematic elements including language
- Award : NAACP Image Award - NAACP Image Award Nominee
- Last updated : April 14, 2026
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