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42

Play trailer Poster for 42 PG-13 2013 2h 8m Biography History Drama Play Trailer Watchlist
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80% Tomatometer 194 Reviews 85% Popcornmeter 100,000+ Ratings
In 1946, Branch Rickey (Harrison Ford), legendary manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers, defies major league baseball's notorious color barrier by signing Jackie Robinson (Chadwick Boseman) to the team. The heroic act puts both Rickey and Robinson in the firing line of the public, the press and other players. Facing open racism from all sides, Robinson demonstrates true courage and admirable restraint by not reacting in kind and lets his undeniable talent silence the critics for him.
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Critics Consensus

42 is an earnest, inspirational, and respectfully told biography of an influential American sports icon, though it might be a little too safe and old-fashioned for some.

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Critics Reviews

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Dwight Brown National Newspaper Publishers Association 03/07/2017
This honorable and enlightening film pays due respect to Jackie Robinson -- a sports legend and courageous American hero. Go to Full Review
Mick LaSalle San Francisco Chronicle 05/07/2014
3/4
A dramatization of what Robinson did and what it required, 42 will not disappoint. Go to Full Review
Mary F. Pols TIME Magazine 05/07/2014
It's not easy to play a stoic, but Boseman anchors the movie, and when he smiles, 42, already such a warm story of such cold times, gets even brighter. Go to Full Review
Mike McGranaghan Aisle Seat Dec 3
3/4
Even if it isn't the most in-depth telling of Robinson's extraordinary journey, it is nonetheless a marvelously entertaining tribute to a very important man. Go to Full Review
Don Shanahan Every Movie Has a Lesson 10/13/2024
4/5
Yes, it has its forgivable offenses of oversimplification, sunny optimism, Disney-like gloss, and convenient revision, but the film succeeds in its primary goal to inspire the viewer. Go to Full Review
JD Duran InSession Film 08/23/2024
C+
The rest of the supporting cast, including Nicole Beharie who plays Mrs. Robinson, is pretty bad and struggle to deliver quality lines. Go to Full Review
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Audience Reviews

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Matthew L. @Moviefanatic02 Oct 30 42 is both inspiring and humbling 42 is easily one of my favorite sports movies of all time. It’s not just a film about baseball—it’s a story about courage, dignity, and breaking barriers in the face of overwhelming prejudice. The way Jackie Robinson’s journey is portrayed makes it impossible not to feel every ounce of the emotion he endures throughout the story. From the humiliation and anger he faces to the moments of triumph and pride, you truly experience it all right alongside him. The film makes you feel the weight of his silence, the strength behind his restraint, and the victory of his perseverance. Chadwick Boseman delivers a phenomenal performance as Jackie Robinson, capturing his quiet strength and resilience with incredible authenticity. His portrayal makes you respect not only the man but also the sheer will it took to stand tall in an era of open prejudice and hostility. Every scene with him radiates power and emotion, reminding the audience that this is more than a story about baseball—it’s about history being rewritten. Harrison Ford’s performance as Branch Rickey deserves just as much praise. He brings a level of gravitas and integrity to the role that perfectly complements Boseman’s energy. Ford’s portrayal feels genuine, layered, and deeply human, making his character a crucial emotional anchor for the story. 42 is both inspiring and humbling. It captures the heart of what sports can represent when they transcend the game itself—hope, change, and unity. By the time the credits roll, you’re left not only admiring Jackie Robinson’s legacy but also reflecting on the strength it takes to stand alone for what’s right. This movie isn’t just a must-watch for baseball fans—it’s a must-watch for everyone. See more Payton S. @pshoe615 Oct 16 90/100 - obviously amazing story. Rewatchable See more Scott R @ScottR Oct 5 Saw it after seeing the original from the 50s. This one was not nearly as positive, nor as entertaining, but it is still a well made movie that informs even if it is from a modernized view. SLC DVD. See more Les N Jul 13 Appreciate the movie...but why aren't racists hung out to dry like any criminal? See more Petro B May 22 Amazing sports film, baseball scenes are awesome, story is also great See more Apr 25 I can't believe Rotten Tomatoes gave this a high rating. It was schmaltzy from beginning to end. What kind of critics would give it a glowing review. See more Read all reviews
42

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Movie Info

Synopsis In 1946, Branch Rickey (Harrison Ford), legendary manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers, defies major league baseball's notorious color barrier by signing Jackie Robinson (Chadwick Boseman) to the team. The heroic act puts both Rickey and Robinson in the firing line of the public, the press and other players. Facing open racism from all sides, Robinson demonstrates true courage and admirable restraint by not reacting in kind and lets his undeniable talent silence the critics for him.
Director
Brian Helgeland
Producer
Thomas Tull
Screenwriter
Brian Helgeland
Distributor
Warner Bros. Pictures
Production Co
Legendary Pictures
Rating
PG-13 (Thematic Elements|Language)
Genre
Biography, History, Drama
Original Language
English
Release Date (Theaters)
Apr 12, 2013, Wide
Release Date (Streaming)
Oct 3, 2013
Box Office (Gross USA)
$95.1M
Runtime
2h 8m
Sound Mix
Datasat, SDDS, Dolby Digital
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