The Court-Martial Of Jackie Robinson

Watch The Court-Martial Of Jackie Robinson

"Even before he crossed baseball's color barrier, his field of dreams was a nightmare."
  • M
  • 1990
  • 1 hr 40 min
  • 6.9  (241)

The Court-Martial of Jackie Robinson is a historical drama film from 1990 that explores a pivotal moment in the life of legendary baseball player Jackie Robinson. The movie tells the story of how Robinson, who had just been drafted into the United States Army during World War II and had been training at Fort Hood, Texas, was court-martialed in 1944 for refusing to move to the back of a segregated army bus.

The film stars Andre Braugher as Jackie Robinson, and he gives a powerful performance that captures both the athlete's pride and his frustration at being put in such a situation. Daniel Stern stars as Robinson's defense attorney, Captain William C. Cash, who fights tirelessly to clear his client's name. And Ruby Dee delivers a memorable supporting performance as Robinson's wife, Rachel.

The Court-Martial of Jackie Robinson is a thought-provoking film that explores the themes of racism, prejudice, and injustice. It highlights the military's practice of segregation and the ways in which African American soldiers were often treated unfairly. The film also portrays Robinson's determination to stand up for what he believes in, even if it means facing a court-martial.

The movie opens with Robinson's arrival at Fort Hood, where he is met with hostility from both his white and black fellow soldiers. He quickly becomes disillusioned with the military's treatment of African American soldiers, and his frustration mounts when he is ordered to move to the back of a bus. When he refuses, he is arrested and charged with insubordination.

Captain Cash takes on Robinson's case and decides to use the trial as an opportunity to challenge the military's discriminatory policies. The trial itself is a tense affair, with both sides presenting impassioned arguments to the court. Braugher shines in these scenes, conveying Robinson's inner turmoil as he faces the possibility of prison time.

Throughout the trial, the film explores the larger social and political issues of the time, such as the double standard of fighting for freedom abroad while denying it to people of color at home. It also shows the hypocrisy of military leaders who espoused democratic ideals while subjecting African American soldiers to segregation and discrimination.

As the trial progresses, it becomes clear that Cash's defense of Robinson is not solely motivated by a desire to help his client. Instead, he sees the case as an opportunity to strike a blow against institutionalized racism and make a statement about the state of the nation.

The Court-Martial of Jackie Robinson is a well-crafted film that is as relevant today as it was when it was released in 1990. It is a powerful story of courage, integrity, and the fight for justice in the face of overwhelming odds. The performances of Braugher, Stern, and Dee are all outstanding, and the film's themes still resonate with audiences today. Overall, it is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of civil rights in America.

The Court-Martial Of Jackie Robinson
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Description
  • Release Date
    1990
  • MPAA Rating
    M
  • Runtime
    1 hr 40 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    6.9  (241)