Only some trailers are capable of giving a viewer chills, and “42’s” manages to do just that. The upcoming adaptation of the legendary Jackie Robinson story is reminiscent of the sort of classic sports film that makes the heart pound even if everyone knows who wins the game at the end of the day.
“42” follows Robinson’s historic career with the Brooklyn Dodgers. As a black man in a white-dominated league, Robinson battles racism and a nation that refuses to change. He stares down adversity with his undeniable talent and the help of his unapologetic manager Branch Rickey.
Though it might have been tempting to boost ticket sales by having a star play the lead, the people behind “42” cast little-known actor Chadwick Boseman to play Robinson instead, placing their confidence in the story’s inspiring message and heartfelt realism. Harrison Ford plays manager Branch Rickey, who mentored Robinson as he faced antagonism from the league, baseball fans and even his own teammates.
“42” will be about much more than baseball. Robinson’s story is a tale of the strength, perseverance and bravery of a man who never let anybody judge him by the color of his skin. It is the story of a man who wanted to play ball but inadvertently changed the world in the process. Without special effects or A-list actors, “42” hopes to present a captivating tale that reminds us all of what it takes to alter history for the better.
— Bob Teoh
