Media Log About a Movie Called 42, Essay Example

In the movie 42 the issue of racism in the United States during the middle 20^th century is addressed.  It is approached through the lens of the famous baseball player Jackie Robinson, as he struggles to find footing amidst the racism of the 1940s.  During his struggle, Jackie faces racism from various sources, but also finds allies that help him along the way.  In the end his struggles show the importance of perseverance even amidst diversity, and at its heart it seems to contend that most people wish to overcome the trappings of their time and move forward in order to create a better world.

The 20^th century saw a very violent and hateful racism at the heart of the American culture.  This was no different for baseball.  While minorities were allowed to be in the minor leagues, they weren’t allowed to play for the majors.  It was argued that they were inferior so that they wouldn’t be able to play as well.  People were uncomfortable with minorities being mixed in with the current players.  At the time, it was unheard of for someone who wasn’t white to play professional baseball.

The movie begins with Harrison Ford playing Branch Ricky, the team executive for the Brooklyn dodgers, discussing the importance of allowing minorities into the major leagues.  He seems to be a religious man, and this effects his view on race.  He believes that if God made people in various ways, then it’s not up to man to decide that one is better than another.  Furthermore, he seems to believe that the desegregation of baseball is essential for not only relieving racial tension across the country, but also for moving forward with more progressive and better society.

Jackie Robinson is playing for the minor leagues as a shortstop.  He is selected by Ricky for his ability to get the crowd’s attention.  His skills to both get on a base and cause tension on offense coupled with his solid defensive shortstop skills caught the old executive’s eye.  During a stop on the road with his team, Jackie is approached with the first offer for an African American to play in the major leagues. Throughout the move, Jackie faces a lot of adversity.  Some even threaten Ricky, and their team manager is blackmailed and loses his job.  Despite this, he perseveres, and eventually begins to capture the adoration of the fans.

In the end both Jackie Robinson and Branch Ricky become baseball hall of famers.  They were determined to show the world that there was no logic or merit to the idea that one race was intrinsically better than others.  They worked together and showed how people can change the world when they come together for a common cause.  Their strength of spirit and faith allowed them to overcome the social issues of their time.  Not only that, but they have gone down in the history books as stewards of social justice and progress.

This movie was inspiring for someone dealing with racial adversity in today’s society.  Jackie Robinson’s example sets precedence for acceptance within both sports leagues and society as a whole. Though it isn’t as prevalent as it was then, racism still affects the lives of minorities in America.  The path that Jackie Robinson walked was difficult, but he still continued forwards with what he wanted.  This attitude is something that all people can learn something from, and in this way, the world will become a better place.