Review of Race (2016) by Ricky B — 22 Feb 2016

Very good movie that deals with more than just a race but actual racism. A very apropos title.

This movie is not a biopic but one that covers the Olympics in Berlin while Hitler and the Nazi's are in power and a little bit before Jessie shows up to the games. Jessie shows up for his first day of college and meets his new coach Larry Snyder who has a past as a record holder in track and had a chance to go to the Olympics but didn't due to certain circumstances. Jessie also has a fiance at home in Ohio with a child that he is trying to make arrangements for so that he can marry her when the time comes. As he goes through the typical racial issues of that time he is also faced with the proposition to not even go to the Olympics that he is qualified for so that he can supposedly send a powerful message to the Nazi's about their ignorance and cruelty to diversity. America as well is struggling with a decision not to show up as well and strengthens to boycott the Olympics for the same reason. Jeremy Irons character Avery Brundage comes into play as a liaison  for America to persuade the Nazi's to calm down there intolerance at least for the games sake so that Americans can feel comfortable just being at the games in their country.

The acting was solid and enjoyable. I had no issue believing any of the performances. I am glad that they handled more than just Jessie's story but also took time to let other characters show what other creeds went through. Not only did Negroes and Jews have issue with being treated equal but they also showed that they treat their own with hatred as well if they do not fall in line. From enlisting people to putting them in compromising positions is nothing new to Nazi's when it came to their countrymen showing resistance to their regime. The movie showed that this was not a Black History movie but just a History movie. Even though Jessie was the selling point it pointed out the issues others had as well and sacrifices they had to make. As an athlete it was very good to see that they touched on the atmosphere you have to create for yourself when focusing on the moment you are in to do your best in your field. Sometimes even though you are surrounded by people who want you to fail and are spitting hatred to your face you just have to block out the noise so that you can keep your sanity among the idiots and do what only you can do. This was also not a movie that had a conclusive end. It showcased all the good stuff concerning Jessie and his medals but still showed that racism was still there and he still had to deal with bigotry through entering his own celebration dinner through the back door of the building.

Very Good movie.