"The Great Debaters"

I went into the movie theater expecting great things from "The Great Debaters" but came out of the movie wishing I would have just waited to rent it to save a few dollars. Maybe I was expecting too much. Though the true events the movie is based off of are amazingly inspirational, the movie was thing but.

The main problem I had with the movie was the little boy, James, who was supposed to be a loved character that kept the audience rooting for him. He was EXTREMELY irritating to me, and by the end of the movie I only imagined how good the last debate would have been had he not debated. Though the scene was meant to be touching and triumphant (as I'm sure it was for most viewers) I was thinking about how much I disliked the character and imagining the more skilled and powerful voice of Henry in my head. Henry was who I was rooting for. With James comes his family, which I also felt no emotional attachment to. I simply didn't care for James or his family. Words can't express my frustrations with James.

Wilson, though I understand his purpose in the movie, was hilarious to me and completely unnecessary. One liners like, "I am Wilson." had me and my friends laughing out loud. With every scene he was in, the more ridiculous (and almost creepy) I thought he was. Why?? Just why? Things like Wilson just made me realize how much I didn't like the movie.

Of course Denzel was great and in the movie. He still has that sex appeal after all these years as well. Both he and his character were strong and effective.

The plot, though slightly uplifting, was extremely predictable. I can't believe it was nominated for best motion picture at the Golden Globes. But, I still love Denzel and applaud him on his great job acting and directing the movie.