The Great Debaters

2007 • 127 minutes
5.0
6 reviews
80%
Tomatometer
PG-13
Rating
Eligible
Watch in a web browser or on supported devices Learn More

About this movie

Based on the true story of Melvin B. Tolson, a professor from the historically black Wiley College in East Texas. In 1935, Tolson inspired students to form the college's first debating team, and led it to defeat Harvard in national championships.
Rating
PG-13

Ratings and reviews

5.0
6 reviews
S A GOULD
February 28, 2022
Agreed with above review, I’d watch anything with Denzel Washington. (And Forest Whitaker, too.) This is a wonderful true story, a small college that took on the Harvard debating team and won. Movie does not shy away from truth of the times either (outright racism, Jim Crow, “friendly” local sheriff, union busing and… a lynching the debate team just happiness to witness while during through on the way to a debate, which they luckily escape). It is above all a determinedly cheerful and uplifting 2007 movie. Comment box is telling me that "helpful reviews have 100 words or more, so... that Denzel delivers another stellar performance, is no surprise.
Did you find this helpful?
Joshua Diaz
June 17, 2021
Anything with Denzel Washington, even with a minor role is just amazing.
Did you find this helpful?

Rate this movie

Tell us what you think.