The Great Debaters

How could you go wrong with Denzel Washington and Forest Whitaker? Denzel is one of my favorites, and I really enjoy his portrayals of racial and class discrimination. Often, when I watch a film that depicts extreme discrimination, I feel uncomfortable and even negative about my race or class...as if the creators of the film want me to feel guilty for something that my ancestors may or may not have done. I did not feel that way when I watched Remember the Titans or Glory, and I definitely did not feel that way in this film. I appreciated that the filmmakers showed some of the atrocities of the time period, but that they also made it very clear that there was an abundance of people who were ready and willing to put aside all racial differences. The wanna-be lawyer in me loved the debate scenes (especially the final debate), and the debate topics made me think of specific arguments that I would have used. I am always looking for up and coming actors, and this film was packed with "nobodies"...young actors who have not been around the block as many of the frequently used young actors have been. The only student that my hubby and I really recognized was Jurnee Smollett (although we did not know her by name...Dan recognized her from Full House). I don't think I would say that the acting was impeccable, but it was decent. The film was enjoyable, but not spectacular...I would say worthy of three pigs.