I just left seeing "The Great Debaters" for the second time and I hope to see it again -- the next time with young people. It is tremendously important for young people of all backgrounds to see this well-made film. "The Great Debaters" is a source of important lessons in history, literature, and character development, too. Like you, Mr. Sarris, this film left me feeling hopeful and joyous--and so did your review. Thank you for understanding. By the way, I don't agree with you that the young debaters saw FDR as the "great white father" in D.C. I think that part of the film began to establish the intellectual independence of the youthful debaters -- especially of the Henry Lowe character who ultimately takes leadership as the architect of the winning debate. But--this is all a part of the wonderfulness of this film -- there is so much to learn and discuss. Hallelujah for "The Great Debaters"!
I just left seeing "The Great Debaters" for the second time and I hope to see it again -- the next time with young people. It is tremendously important for young people of all backgrounds to see this well-made film. "The Great Debaters" is a source of important lessons in history, literature, and character development, too. Like you, Mr. Sarris, this film left me feeling hopeful and joyous--and so did your review. Thank you for understanding. By the way, I don't agree with you that the young debaters saw FDR as the "great white father" in D.C. I think that part of the film began to establish the intellectual independence of the youthful debaters -- especially of the Henry Lowe character who ultimately takes leadership as the architect of the winning debate. But--this is all a part of the wonderfulness of this film -- there is so much to learn and discuss. Hallelujah for "The Great Debaters"!