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| Movie Review: The Great Debaters Alternate Title: Word
Story: If you want to have your
spirits raised this holiday season check out the latest feel good product
from Harpo (Oprah) productions, directed by Denzel Washington.
It is a fictionalized take on the true story of Wiley College,
the small, all black institution in 1935 Texas and how they took on
the all white college big guys in a National debate. It was written
by Robert Eisele with a story by Jeffrey Porro.
The good news is that this film has terrific
production values. The feel, look and tenor of that horrific racist
time in Texas is captured and certainly heartfelt. The bad news is that
it is so very formulaic. I longed for some surprises along the way but
sadly, there were none coming forth to me. That said - I can still recommend
this to one and all. Be sure to stay for the 'what happened to them'
before the credits role. A mind is a terrible thing to waste
has true meaning is this entertaining holiday film. Acting: Denzel Washington as debate
coach, poet, Union organizer and general hero to one and all is a perfect
fit for the man with the million dollar smile. Forest Whitaker
as a preacher, teacher is always right on target. Young Denzel
Whitaker (no relation), was wonderful as the immature, but
soon to be CORE hero, James Farmer. Nate Parker as
Henry Lowe has a long career ahead of him. Jurnee Smollett
as the female debater was excellent too. The ensemble supporting cast
were all first rate and included: John Heard, Kimberly Elise,
Jermaine Williams, J.D. Evermore, Justice Leak
Predilection: None
Critters: A dead pig, horses and livestock.
Food: Fried chicken (really), sweet potato pie and
sweets at high tea.
Sex Spectrum: A very short sex scene viewed from a
blurry mirror.
Blatant Product Placement: Wiley College could use
our help.
Soundtrack: Appropriate and at times driven to sappy,
soaring stuff.
Opening Titles: A montage of music and images with
simply the name of the film.
Theater Audience: It was a packed house for an advance
screening and there was applauding at the film's end.
Weather: The weather was nice in 1935 Texas.
Sappy Factor: 2
Quirky Meter: 0
Squirm Scale: Racism makes my blood boil and skin
crawl.
Drift Factor: I started to look at my watch after
about 70 minutes.
Predictability Level: High
Tissue Usage: 0
Oscar Worthy: No
Big Screen or Rental: Either would do.
Length: A few words over two hours.
LOBO HOWLS: 7
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