The Great White Hope

Watch The Great White Hope

"He could beat any white man in the world. He just couldn't beat all of them."
  • PG-13
  • 1970
  • 1 hr 43 min
  • 6.9  (2,768)
  • 53

The Great White Hope is a 1970 film directed by Martin Ritt, based on the play by Howard Sackler. The film tells the story of Jack Jefferson, a successful black boxer and his relationship with Eleanor Bachman, a white woman. Jack Jefferson, played by James Earl Jones, is a talented boxer who faces racial discrimination and prejudice from the white people who run the sport. Despite the odds against him, Jack becomes the heavyweight champion of the world.

Eleanor Bachman, played by Jane Alexander, is a socially aware woman who becomes aware of Jack's situation and the racism he faces. Eleanor is aware of the prejudice and racism that pervades American society, and she becomes Jack's lover and confidante. Despite their differences in race and background, the two form a deep emotional bond.

As Jack's success grows, he becomes a symbol of hope and strength for the black community. However, Jack's success also makes him a target of racism, and he is subjected to numerous threats and attacks. Jack's opponents use racial slurs and threats to try to intimidate him, but Jack remains unbowed and continues to fight for his rights and for justice.

The film is set in the early 1900s, a time when racial discrimination and segregation were rampant in America. The Great White Hope is a powerful and moving film that addresses the issue of racism and prejudice in an honest and unflinching way. The film is a reminder of the struggles that black people faced in the past and continue to face today.

The performances in the film are outstanding, particularly that of James Earl Jones as Jack Jefferson. Jones brings a great amount of energy and emotion to his role, and he portrays Jack as a determined and strong-willed fighter who refuses to be beaten down by racism. Jane Alexander also gives a strong performance as Eleanor Bachman, a woman who is willing to risk her social standing and her reputation to stand up for what she believes in.

The Great White Hope is a thought-provoking and powerful film that deals with important issues that are still relevant today. The film has a message of hope and resilience that is inspiring for all people, regardless of their race or background. The film is a testament to the power of the human spirit and the power of love to overcome the forces of racism and prejudice.

In conclusion, The Great White Hope is a must-see film that tells an important story about the struggles of black people in America. The film is a powerful and moving portrait of a determined and strong-willed fighter who refuses to be beaten down by racism. The performances in the film are outstanding, particularly that of James Earl Jones as Jack Jefferson. Overall, The Great White Hope is a powerful and important film that deserves to be seen by all.

The Great White Hope
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Description
  • Release Date
    1970
  • MPAA Rating
    PG-13
  • Runtime
    1 hr 43 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    6.9  (2,768)
  • Metascore
    53
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