Dome Pondering Movie Review: 42 (2012)

What is it about?

The story of Jackie Robinson's experience in Major League Baseball under the advise and guidance of Brooklyn Dodgers team owner, Branch Rickey.

Who is in it?

Chadwick Boseman - Jackie Robinson

Harrison Ford - Branch Rickey

Nicole Beharie - Rachel Robinson

Favorite Scene:

While on a road trip in Cincinnati, Pee Wee Reese, who was worried about a death threat regarding his impending participation in playing with Robinson, went over and threw his arm around Robinson at first base so he could make a statement to everyone in attendance.

Favorite Quote:

"Maybe tomorrow, we'll all wear 42, so nobody could tell us apart."

Review:

42 was an average film. I hate to say that because the story of Jackie Robinson is a phenomenal one, but one which I just don't think this movie captured. While it touched on the racism and some of the troubles that occurred in Robinson's life, the film felt like it sugar coated a lot of the story for safety of a good feeling. 42 felt empty and shallow in it's purpose and felt like a movie afraid of digging up a part of American history that some are uncomfortable with.

By no means is it terrible, 42 just seemed like a let down, especially for this baseball fan. Nonetheless, it does provide some must-see things such as Harrison Ford's effort as Branch Rickey, the authentic uniforms, and the CGI cinematography in replicating the old ballparks.

All in all, 42 is OK. Could have - and should have - been much better, but overall, still a decent watch.

Grade: 2.75/5

Recently Read

Dear Son, Big Fan of the Kid Turning Seven

---7 Years Old --- Dear Son, It’s been a while since I’ve dropped a few thoughts. Forgive me, I’ve just been watching. Just observing. Taking it all in. Trying to be a good dad. I’m punching the keys today from one of your martial arts practices. It’s your second with “the big kids” and also the second time I’ve found myself watching from the sidelines with anxiety, with pride, and with likely my biggest fandom for you yet in this space. My feelings are much more than you playing baseball or coaching you in basketball. Your disposition is different. Your excellence is different in this space. With martial arts, you stay diligent with the process. Respectful. Working hard. Getting better. In competition with and respecting the older kids you are training with. That’s what I’ve enjoyed. It encapsulates everything you’ve grown into thus far. Still empathetic as ever, but adding an element of self-ambition and drive - something I’ve prided myself on - and to see you mature into this m...

Working in Higher Ed, Lately

"Working in higher education must be interesting these days, huh?" That question was posed to me by several people who recently learned that I worked in higher education. The recent discourse around the industry and field has certainly shifted in narrative and the overall feel within it. I recently wrapped up my fourteenth (!!) academic year. It's remarkable to think that I've been serving students and following a passion for this long. This is especially the case considering the rising turnover, the documented yearly burnout, and the increasing exodus from the field. And, yup, there is that whole enrollment cliff combined with the politics that are more present than ever on college campuses. So yeah, higher education is weird right now. Very weird. Some quick thoughts : IS IT TIME? Yes, I have thought about leaving the field several times. Especially, over the last few years. COVID didn't really bother me, but it's safe to say that the world of higher edu...

Quick Ponder: Living for Your Kids

Many, are willing to die for their kids. Few, are committed to live for their kids.

Dome Pondering

Search This Blog