Review of 42 (2013) by Chrisanne C — 05 Sep 2013

This is one of those straightforward and compelling inspirational true stories that reminds us that it only takes one man to change the world. A great biopic of Jackie Robinson, the first African American baseball player in the Major League Baseball who wore Number 42 for the Brooklyn Dodgers; how he bravely faced prejudice, racism, injustice and pain in the face of hostile crowds, public opinion, media, team mates and opposing players.

Harrison Ford is brilliant as the tenacious and visionary Branch Rickey, the manager who sees Jackie's potential and takes the courageous stand of signing him on despite the deeply entrenched baseball culture and politics.

This act changes the course of history, forever transforming the landscape of the game, and more importantly, setting yet another "civil rights" milestone on the nation. The film is set in 1947.

There's strong attention to detail - from baseball parks to costume to games scenes - which makes the film come alive and authentic. The film is not overly melodramatic, which makes it enjoyable and heartfelt.