Many times we run ourselves and our children away from movies that depict segregation and struggle. We cover our eyes, close our ears and refuse to read the books that tell of those who went before us to pave the way. I myself am a victim, having shied away from movies like “Rosewood” and “Amistad” because my stomach and my heart were too weak to watch. But Denzel Washington’s latest, “The Great Debaters,” shines an inspiring light on a subject that brings many to tears. The film retells the story of Melvin B. Tolson (Denzel Washington) the Wiley College professor who fought against all odds in the Jim Crow South to create a championship debate team and unify a small Texas town.
Never have I seen a cast so perfectly suited for their parts–and each other–but then again, if you are praying about who to cast in which role then it is to be expected that the outcome would be flawless. These young actors truly embodied the role of black people in the Jim Crow South. The fear, the pain and the joy in the midst of sorrow was excellently portrayed. They rode the rollercoaster of amazing highs–winning debates against majority institutions–and devastatings lows–watching a man get lynched and being in danger of getting lynched themselves–as if they were industry veterans. Moments like the latter were raw in their depiction and hard to stomach but it was also a great reminder of how far we have come by faith.
I can think of no better reason to see the “The Great Debaters” than to have the opportunity to watch young actors reach their peak in the midst of great veterans like Washington, Whitaker and Oprah Winfrey–one of the producers of the film. Knowing the odds against a normal black boy or girl, the movie felt like art imitating life. Every moment was magical but not because it was beautifully directed or produced–it was indeed, but because every person in the film committed to telling a story that would touch the hearts of millions. So if you are looking for true inspiration, great acting and a bit of a history lesson, check out the “The Great Debaters” which opens in theaters on Christmas Day.