Watch With Drawn Arms

With Drawn Arms is a powerful and inspiring documentary that tells the story of American track and field athlete Tommie Smith, his journey to the 1968 Olympic Games, and the iconic moment when he raised his fist in a Black Power salute on the podium. The film explores the courage, determination, and sacrifice of this profound moment in history, as well as the impact it had on Smith's life and the world at large.

The film begins with a look back at the racial tensions and turmoil of the late 1960s, a time when athletes and activists alike were fighting for civil rights and social justice. Against this backdrop, we meet Tommie Smith, a young athlete from the hard-scrabble streets of Clarksville, Texas, who showed an early talent for running. Smith's rise to prominence in the track and field world was fueled by his incredible athleticism, his hard work, and his dedication to the sport.

As Smith prepares to compete in the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City, the film takes us on a journey through his training regimen, his experiences as a Black athlete in a predominantly white sport, and his growing consciousness of the social and political issues of the day. With interviews from Smith himself, as well as his family, friends, and fellow athletes, the film paints a vivid picture of the man behind the race.

One of the most powerful moments in the film comes when we witness Smith's now-famous protest on the Olympic podium. After winning the gold medal in the 200-meter sprint, Smith and fellow Black athlete John Carlos raised their fists in a Black Power salute, in protest of the ongoing oppression of Black people in America. The scene is remarkable for its rawness and authenticity, as Smith recounts the emotions that led up to the protest, and the fallout that followed.

The film does an excellent job of contextualizing Smith's protest, and showing how it was part of a larger movement for Black liberation and social justice. We see how Smith's protest was inspired by the work of the Civil Rights movement, as well as the activism of Black athletes like Muhammad Ali and Jim Brown. And we see how the protest sparked a firestorm of controversy, with Smith and Carlos being vilified by the media and punished by the International Olympic Committee.

But the film doesn't stop at the moment of protest. With Drawn Arms also explores the aftermath of Smith's protest, and how it impacted his life and career. We see how Smith was forced to confront the consequences of his actions, including threats on his life, job loss, and public ostracism. And we see how he continued to fight for social justice, both through his athletic career and his later work as an educator and activist.

The film is an inspiring and poignant tribute to Tommie Smith, a man who stood up for what he believed in, even when it meant sacrificing his career and reputation. But it also serves as a rallying cry for the ongoing struggle for racial justice, and a reminder of the power of protest and activism to effect change. With its moving interviews, stunning archival footage, and powerful message, With Drawn Arms is a must-see documentary that sheds light on a pivotal moment in American history, and the courage of the people who made it happen.

In addition to the personal story of Tommie Smith, the film also features commentary and analysis from a wide range of experts and observers, including African American History and Culture Museum’s Director Lonnie Bunch, writer and filmmaker Nelson George, and sports journalist Jemele Hill. Through their insights, we gain a broader understanding of the significance of Smith's protest, and its lasting impact on American culture and society.

Overall, With Drawn Arms is a thought-provoking and deeply inspiring documentary, one that illuminates a critical moment in history and the people who made it happen. Through its powerful storytelling and emotional resonance, the film reminds us of the importance of speaking truth to power, and the power of protest to effect real change.

With Drawn Arms is a 2020 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 23 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6.