The Great Debaters
- Denzel Washington: Melvin B. Tolson
- Jermaine Williams: Hamilton Burgess
- Denzel Whitaker: James Farmer Jr.
- Jurnee Smollett: Samantha Booke
- Forest Whitaker: James Farmer senior
- Gina Ravera: Ruth Tolson
- Kimberly Elise: Pearl Farmer
The Great Debaters is an American film drama from 2007, directed by Denzel Washington, who also took over the lead role and co-produced the film. ; the screenplay was written by Robert Eisele.
Action
The action takes place in the 1930s in the United States. Melvin B. Tolson organizes debating a college in Texas, where he teaches African-American students oratory. His four best students - including one woman, Samantha Booke - start in a competition in which the students attend Harvard University as well.
Reviews
Todd McCarthy wrote on 18 December 2007 in the online version of the magazine Variety, the film is "tailored for maximum inspirational, historical and educative effect ". However, realism and psychological depth to him would be missing ( " the film lacks in realism and psychological depth" )
Awards
The film received in 2007, the Freedom of Expression Award from the National Board of Review. He was in the category of Best Film - Drama nominated for a Golden Globe Award. Denzel Whitaker was nominated in 2008 for the Young Artist Award. In the Image Awards 2008 The Great Debaters in the categories Best Film, Best Actor was ( Denzel Washington), best actress ( Jurnee Smollett ) and Best Supporting Actor ( Denzel Whitaker ) excellent; Denzel Washington as a director, Nate Parker, Forest Whitaker and Robert Eisele were nominated for the same price. The film received the 2008 Christopher Award and the Stanley Kramer Award and was nominated for the sound editor ( music) for a Golden Reel Award.
Background
The film was shot in various locations in Texas and Louisiana, on the campus of Harvard University, in Boston. His cost of production was estimated at 15 million U.S. dollars.
On 3 December 2007 a demonstration for the critics was held in Beverly Hills. The wide release in theaters in the USA launched on 25 December 2007. The film played in the cinemas of the United States about 30.2 million U.S. dollars.