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The Jackie Robinson Story |
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This is one of the greatest baseball films ever made about the extraordinary life of one of baseballs greatest players. This film is a testament to Robinsons courage, not only for having to prove that he is a great player, but also for maintaining his dignity while enduring the harassment and prejudice he had expected for being the first African American to break organized baseballs color barrier. What is most remarkable about the film, aside from being a successful dramatization of Jackie Robinsons career, is Robinsons performance as himself. He is so believable in his mild mannered and understated performance that he appears to be a natural actor. Having Robinson play himself was a stroke of genius, as not only does he do an excellent job as an actor, but he makes the story so real because he really is Jackie Robinson. The film is not preachy, nor does it dwell on bigotry, and, to its credit, it is first and foremost a story about a great baseball player who happens to be a Black American. You are absolutely convinced after seeing this film that Robinson is truly a great American hero.
The Jackie Robinson Story was made in 1950 and stars Jackie Robinson as himself. The story is an interesting commentary on race relations and the trials experienced by the Robinson family during this troubled period. By today's standards, the movie has several sections that are insulting and gratuitous - especially since this was a feel good movie. Some of the historic footage of Ebbets Field and baseball are classic re-creations, made in the same period.
Branch Rickey, played by Minor Watson, is an interesting character in the movie. Mr. Rickey was the Steinbrenner / Charley Finley of his day and once recruited a midget because of his small strike zone. His oratories about the greatness of America and equality must be tempered by Rickey's enthusiasm for self promotion. In truth, one feels his desire to play Jackie was as much a marketing decision as anything. Breaking the color barrier in baseball was great press... for Branch Rickey and the Brooklyn Dodgers.
The movie opens with scenes of Jackie as a child and his family. Soon he is off to UCLA on a scholarship - playing football. More character development as love grows between the future Mrs. Robinson, played by Ruby Dee, and Jackie. Jackie gets a job - he's drafted by the army!
Then the War ends and Jackie comes home. He gets a job playing baseball - with the Black Panthers in the Negro Leagues. Jackie faces racism everywhere the team travels. He gets a visit from a scout with the Brooklyn Dodgers - Jackie thinks the guy is pulling his leg. Eventually - he goes to NY and meets Branch Rickey.
Jackie then meets with a minister and discusses the implications of a Black man playing baseball - not only for Jackie, but all Black people. The amount of pressure must have been amazing. Jackie goes to Montreal to play in the minors.
There is lots of baseball action as Jackie plays in the minors in Montreal. He confronts racism - from the fans, from strangers, and even his own teammates. Some of the Dodgers sign a petition asking Branch Rickey to leave Jackie off the team.
Jackie eventually gets brought up to the Major Leagues (Brooklyn Dodgers) and he continues to keep his head despite all kinds of race baiting he confronts everywhere he goes. Exciting baseball history as Jackie does his talking with his bat and with his fielding. Watch the The Jackie Robinson Story!
Jackie Robinson as himself and Ruby Dee as Rachel Robinson
In 1950, The Jackie Robinson Story wasn't the automatic movie material it would have been today. Robinson with Minor Watson, who starred as Branch Rickey in The Jackie Robinson Story, and Richard Lane, who portrayed Montreal Manager.
Jackie Robinson
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Himself
Ruby Dee
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Rae Robinson
Minor Watson
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Branch Rickey, President Brooklyn Dodgers
Louise Beavers
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Jackie's mother
Richard Lane
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Clay Hoppice, Montreal Manager
Harry Shannon
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Charlie, Dodger Executive
Ben Lessy
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Shorty, Montreal Player
Bill Spaulding
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Himself
Billy Wayne
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Clyde Sukeforth, Dodger Scout
Joel Fluellen
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Mack Robinson
Bernie Hamilton
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Ernie, Panther Player
Kenny Washington
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Tigers Manager
Pat Flaherty
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Karpen, Dodger Pitcher
Larry McGrath
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Umpire
Emmett Smith
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Catcher
Jackie Robinson studying scripts played himself in this celebratory movie
Return to the Jackie Robinson Homepage
Jackie Robinson MVP Tribute
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