Just got back from "42." Helgeland paced this inspiring film like a balmy day at the ballpark. Languid stretches are punctuated by staccato bursts of intense emotion and drama.
Well-acted by a cast of veteran characters and earnest newcomers, the standout is Chadwick Boseman as Jackie Robinson, who must straddle a line of restraint, determination, nobility and fortitude in the face of withering hatred and racism. For those accustomed to the broad smiles of Robinson's iconic photographs, Boseman's performance will surprise. He plays the legend as a churning engine of emotion; deep love for his wife and child, countered by barely contained resentment at the nigh intolerable slights to which Robinson was exposed during that incredible first season in the majors. Boseman benefits from a clear resemblance to Robinson, an attribute which likely elevated him as a choice for such a pivotal performance. It is a wonderful way to introduce him to a wide audience.
Kudos also to Harrison Ford as Branch Rickey, alternately chewing scenery and delivering heartfelt monologues about the most controversial decision of his career. Christopher Meloni enjoys a perhaps-too-brief turn as the fiery Dodger's manager Leo Durocher. He earns big laughs in his scant screen time. Also notable is John C. McGinley, sporting a delightful accent, as color commentator Red Barber. McGinley gamely narrates the action on the diamond, including the funniest array of metaphors recently heard on screen.
Less appealing, but no less engaging, is Alan Tudyk's performance as a despicable manager for the Phillies. In the longest and most cringe-inducing scene of the film, he takes race baiting to heights unseen since Django Unchained. I don't know if I have heard "that" word from a single cinematic character in my life.
Last, but certainly not least, is the lovely Nicole Beharie as Jackie's wife, Ray Robinson. She's his anchor and pillar of strength and Helgeland writes her as a perfect helpmate. Amazing hair and make-up have her endlessly delightful to look at, but she carries the day with a layered performance that communicates her understanding of both her husband's struggles and the importance of his moment in history.
Those fearing another "Red Tails" can rest easy. "42" is well-crafted, well-performed, and well worth seeing. Enjoy!
Well-acted by a cast of veteran characters and earnest newcomers, the standout is Chadwick Boseman as Jackie Robinson, who must straddle a line of restraint, determination, nobility and fortitude in the face of withering hatred and racism. For those accustomed to the broad smiles of Robinson's iconic photographs, Boseman's performance will surprise. He plays the legend as a churning engine of emotion; deep love for his wife and child, countered by barely contained resentment at the nigh intolerable slights to which Robinson was exposed during that incredible first season in the majors. Boseman benefits from a clear resemblance to Robinson, an attribute which likely elevated him as a choice for such a pivotal performance. It is a wonderful way to introduce him to a wide audience.
Kudos also to Harrison Ford as Branch Rickey, alternately chewing scenery and delivering heartfelt monologues about the most controversial decision of his career. Christopher Meloni enjoys a perhaps-too-brief turn as the fiery Dodger's manager Leo Durocher. He earns big laughs in his scant screen time. Also notable is John C. McGinley, sporting a delightful accent, as color commentator Red Barber. McGinley gamely narrates the action on the diamond, including the funniest array of metaphors recently heard on screen.
Less appealing, but no less engaging, is Alan Tudyk's performance as a despicable manager for the Phillies. In the longest and most cringe-inducing scene of the film, he takes race baiting to heights unseen since Django Unchained. I don't know if I have heard "that" word from a single cinematic character in my life.
Last, but certainly not least, is the lovely Nicole Beharie as Jackie's wife, Ray Robinson. She's his anchor and pillar of strength and Helgeland writes her as a perfect helpmate. Amazing hair and make-up have her endlessly delightful to look at, but she carries the day with a layered performance that communicates her understanding of both her husband's struggles and the importance of his moment in history.
Those fearing another "Red Tails" can rest easy. "42" is well-crafted, well-performed, and well worth seeing. Enjoy!
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