Review: '42: The Jackie Robinson Story'

I guess I kind of put off seeing this film for a few months, partly because I never was the most fond of sports movies. They just always seem more predictable than other films. After seeing this film, I still stand by that statement, yet that doesn't mean I don't think they're good. They really are good, especially when done right. And in the case of '42', many things are done right.

The story is that of Jackie Robinson, the first african-american to play in major league baseball with the Brooklyn Dodgers. It most definitely is an inspiring story. But, of course, every bit of inspiration has to come with an extra dose of cliches. I'm not sure how much of the events in here are factual, and the others are put there for artistic purposes, but i've seen them portrayed plenty times in football and baseball movies alike. It is definitely a film that plays like a soft, feel-good underdog story from the '80's and '90's. And yes, society does need to hear these stories every once in a while. Anything that can brighten your day in the slightest bit is something worth while.

Co starring alongside Chadwick Boseman, who plays Jackie Robinson, is Harrison Ford as Branch Rickey, in probably one the best performances of his career. I know, that does sound a little odd, knowing it's Harrison Ford and how he usually just plays himself in his movies. But in this movie, he actually pushes himself out of his bubble and gives a performance that makes you at least forget half of the time that it's Harrison Ford.

Along with that, there are many good performances in this film. So good, in fact, that I don't need to hear some melodramatic musical score in the background for practically every other scene. In a movie like this especially, I believe if an actor's performance is good and moving enough, I don't need an obvious cue as to tell me how I should feel in the moment.

There are issues to racism in this movie that are really obvious, but also ones that are surprising and startling. In a good way as well. How does racism usually start, and where does it's influence come from? That's one of the many questions this film asks and, in a few very good scenes, answers boldly. I also found it really bold in showing how racism can never really be lifted from certain people, no matter what the situation may be.

Going into this movie, I wasn't entirely expecting much to be impressed with. After watching it though, I didn't feel any sense of regret whatsoever, and it left me with a good feeling. If you do end up watching this film, there will be no time wasted at all.

My Rating: 3 / 4