The Jackie Robinson Story

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The Jackie Robinson Story

Released May 16, 1950

1h 16m

Biography

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63%

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8 Reviews

50%

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500+ Ratings

After a successful baseball career in college and as a coach in the military, Jackie Robinson (playing himself) attracts the attention of Major League Baseball's Branch Rickey (Minor Watson). Rickey wants Robinson to play in the minor leagues, believing he can become the first player to break the color barrier and play in the majors. The only catch: He is forbidden from defending himself against racial bigotry. Supported by his wife (Ruby Dee), Robinson is steadfast in his determination to win.

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TIME Magazine

The best thing about the movie is Jackie Robinson himself, playing the title role. Burdened with some lines and situations that would weigh heavily on a professional actor, he gives a remarkably natural performance.

Mar 21, 2011

Full Review

Nell Minow

Common Sense Media

Movie's main asset is that Robinson plays himself.

Rated: 3/5

Dec 28, 2010

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Bosley Crowther

New York Times

Here the simple story of Mr. Robinson's trail-blazing career is re-enacted with manifest fidelity and conspicuous dramatic restraint. And Mr. Robinson displays a calm assurance and composure that might be envied by many a Hollywood star.

Rated: 4/5

Mar 25, 2006

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TV Guide

Though [Robinson] was a better infielder than he was an actor, anyone who loves baseball will be intrigued by the story of the determined man who broke the color barrier in the major leagues.

Rated: 2/4

Mar 12, 2013

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Dennis Schwartz

Dennis Schwartz Movie Reviews

One of the most sincere sports biopics.

Rated: B

Oct 9, 2007

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Emanuel Levy

EmanuelLevy.Com

Rated: 2/5

Jul 3, 2005

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S R

Despite the poor acting, weak script, and simple directing, this based on a true story resonated and made me appreciate his story so much more than I had. The patriotic appeal at the end was refreshing despite its cliche since it focuses on what opportunities the US gives us rather than what will divide us. I was glad for its positive message that today is much needed. NYT 1000 movies list and SLC DVD.

Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars

05/03/25

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Jim P

Persevered in real life just like starring in his film with no acting experience. He just keeps going.

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

02/14/25

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Steve D

Pulls its punches but it is fun to see Jackie.

Rated 3 out of 5 stars

06/22/23

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Audience Member

Today this film would likely be labeled hackneyed, trite, corny, or the dreaded cliche, but when viewed in the context of 1950, still 14 years before the Civil Rights Act was passed, this film was likely quite progressive and preaches an important social message. I think I can safely state I have never seen a more authentic performance from a lead in a biopic, and was pleasantly surprised with how natural Jackie Robinson appeared in his role. All jokes aside, Robinson was well supported with the script as to never appear out of his element or inauthentic, anymore than any actor would have with this material. The film is basically a condensed collection of episodes from Robinson's life and career, which unfold chronologically and highlight many of the anecdotes, both positive and negative, that fans of his will recognize. I still remember one of my favorite books in early childhood was called Teammates and was about Jackie Robinson and Pee Wee Reese playing for the Brooklyn Dodgers. I could picture some of the illustrations from that book, which I believe won a Caldecott, as some of the corresponding scenes played out in this film. Edit: It does not appear Teaammates ever won a Caldecott but the embossed emblem I was picturing on the cover appears to be for a Redbook Children's Book Award, and while maybe not as prestigious as a Caldecott still proved almost as memorable.

Rated 3 out of 5 stars

01/20/23

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Audience Member

I grew watching this when I was excited to see the never before film of my baseball idol when I was 13. I always like Ruby Dee & she did a great job portraying his wife. Minor Watson as well when he was Branch Rickey. Surprised it's remastered in color which is better now to watch.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

02/25/23

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Audience Member

The best inspiring movie ever made!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

02/26/23

Full Review

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Alfred E. Green

Director

Jackie Robinson

Self

Ruby Dee

Rae Robinson

Minor Watson

Branch Rickey

Louise Beavers

Jackie's Mother

Richard Lane

Clay Hopper

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Synopsis

After a successful baseball career in college and as a coach in the military, Jackie Robinson (playing himself) attracts the attention of Major League Baseball's Branch Rickey (Minor Watson). Rickey wants Robinson to play in the minor leagues, believing he can become the first player to break the color barrier and play in the majors. The only catch: He is forbidden from defending himself against racial bigotry. Supported by his wife (Ruby Dee), Robinson is steadfast in his determination to win.

Director: Alfred E. Green
Producer: Mort Briskin
Screenwriter: Lawrence Taylor, Arthur Mann
Production Co: Jewel Pictures
Genre: Biography
Original Language: English
Release Date (Theaters): May 16, 1950, Limited
Release Date (Streaming): Sep 1, 2012
Runtime: 1h 16m

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