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The Great Debaters (2007)

The Great Debaters cover art
Average rating: (75%)
11152051
4.0
 
Starring: Denzel Washington | Nate Parker | Jurnee Smollett | Denzel Whitaker | Jermaine Williams | Forest Whitaker | Gina Ravera | John Heard | Kimberly Elise
Director: Denzel Washington
Run time: 123 mins
Certificate: TBC
Genres: Drama
Languages: English
Released: unknown

Brief synopsis of The Great Debaters

A drama based on the true story of Melvin B. Tolson, a professor at Wiley College Texas. In 1935, he inspired students to form the school's first debate team, which went on to challenge Harvard in the national championship.

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Rated - 4 starsElucidating entertainment,

crockery from Belfast [Highly rated reviewer] , 30/03/2008

THE GREAT DEBATERS is a movie-going treat, with young people exemplifying truth, respect, pride and dignity. In an entertaining way, with some preaching, this movie shows four African-American debaters succeeding in the face of adversity, growing stronger with success AND defeat. Their debates are lively and thought provoking.

However, before, during and after these contests, other serious and complicated issues are revealed. Two of these issues deal with a confrontation on the road between two farmers and a minister, and a lynching in the middle of the night. Both are reflections of the time, unsettling and disturbing to those in the movie and in the audience.

This is not family entertainment, nor is it mindless entertainment. It has no gratuitous sex, but there is a hint of romance. It is fast paced, but the action is verbal – not physical. THE GREAT DEBATERS lives up to its name in that it has something for everyone, and not everyone will like it. I recommend this movie to anyone who enjoys a quality film that will be debated by all who see it!

Well done, Mr Washington !!! Denzel Washington's second feature as director and done a fantastic job !!! It's a really great movie with lot of feel good factor.

And young Mr Denzel Whitaker as the young prodigy - outstanding !!!

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