42 (2013)

42 is one of the most important numbers in sports history, as well as one of the most important numbers in American history. If you don’t know, that number belonged to Jackie Robinson, the first black baseball player in MLB. This movie follows his start and beginning of his career, and his story is told well. The movie does a phenomenal job of showing the racism that existed during this time period, and all the hate that Jackie had to face just to play ball. It really makes you think about all the hate and division that still exists in our country. It makes you appreciate the bravery and strength that Jackie had to go through, as well as other groundbreaking athletes like Jesse Owens and Hank Aaron. Even though several of the scenes are tough to sit through because of the present racism, it's still something everyone should watch. It gives you a small taste of what black people had to go through, and it really makes you think. However, despite the negativity throughout the movie, there are still some really positive moments. The support that Branch Rickey and many of the Dodgers’ players give to Jackie is really uplifting, and it’s awesome to see the kindness and love that some people give. My favorite scene of the whole movie (and one of my favorite movie scenes of all time) involves a supportive moment between Jackie and Pee Wee. To me, it’s one of the most powerful and emotional scenes put on screen, and it gives a great message of how everyone should be treated equally. The acting by the entire cast was really good, especially Chadwick and Harrison. Both physically and emotionally, there were really good picks for their roles, especially Chadwick. He puts so much raw emotion into his role, and I’m really glad it was him that was called to play Jackie. The music was also extremely good. The score had a great patriotic feel to it, which perfectly fit the movie's tone. The use of several 40’s songs also helped authenticate the movie’s feel. Overall, this movie is extremely good, and even if you don’t like baseball/sports movies, I would still highly recommend it. It reminds you how everyone should love each other, and that we are all the same. It truly opens your eyes, and this is one movie everyone should watch. This film is officially Berry Approved, so go watch it now!