December 28, 2007 in GENRES
THE GREAT DEBATERS
RYAN: We’ve just seen Oprah Winfrey Presents “The Great Debaters,” which marks the second time that Denzel Washington has directed a film. He also stars in it.
CAROLINE: I had no clue what to expect from this movie. All I knew is that it was based on the story of a real debate team from the South in the ’30s, and to me that had “annoying and sentimental story of triumph” written all over it – especially with the Oprah Winfrey endorsement. But actually, I really liked it. RYAN: This movie is truly inspiring and beautiful. I’m very impressed with Denzel, both as a director and as an actor. The rest of the cast is great too, as is the screenplay.
CAROLINE: Honestly, I’m surprised Denzel got nominated for the Golden Globe for “American Gangster” and not this. He was so amazing that I was actually in awe, even though in real life I find him to be kind of a pompous ass. His character in this film, Melvin Tolson, is truly inspiring.
RYAN: I think that’s why Oprah was so passionate about producing this film; the story is so moving. I even got a little teary at the end. But the lead girl is so super skinny.
CAROLINE: Oh my God! She’s so thin that I’m alarmed for her health and well-being. I might need to have a talk with her manager.RYAN: The music is excellent throughout and there are even some fun dance scenes, especially that fantasy one that the chubby debate kid has – that might have been my favorite moment of the film.
CAROLINE: Basically, this movie is what you think it is; the uplifting story of the triumph of a small-town black debate team in the ’30s when racism was rampant in the South. But even though you know that going in, it’s still really fun to watch it happen. I totally got misty at the end. LBH, I fully wept.
RYAN: There are also some rather disturbing scenes of violence and racism. But it makes the success of their team that much more exciting, that they could overcome all of that. Bottom line?
CAROLINE: I really enjoyed this movie. I had planned on being annoyed by it, but I wasn’t at all. Denzel is fabulous; I could totally see him getting nominated for an Oscar. The debaters are all really good too, though of the four I think I liked the girl the least.
RYAN: Forest Whitaker is also in this as one of the debate kid’s father, and he’s amazing. I wholeheartedly recommend this movie. I think people will find it entertaining and well done, but I also think it’s the kind of film that should be shown in schools. It’s got educational value, but it’s the best kind of education because you’re gonna be so entertained that you won’t even mind the moral you’re learning. This is a beautiful movie. Please go see it.