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42

Play trailer Poster for 42 PG-13 2013 2h 8m Biography History Drama Play Trailer Watchlist
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81% Tomatometer 196 Reviews 85% Popcornmeter 100,000+ Ratings
In 1946, Branch Rickey (Harrison Ford), legendary manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers, defies major league baseball's notorious color barrier by signing Jackie Robinson (Chadwick Boseman) to the team. The heroic act puts both Rickey and Robinson in the firing line of the public, the press and other players. Facing open racism from all sides, Robinson demonstrates true courage and admirable restraint by not reacting in kind and lets his undeniable talent silence the critics for him.
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Critics Consensus

42 is an earnest, inspirational, and respectfully told biography of an influential American sports icon, though it might be a little too safe and old-fashioned for some.

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Critics Reviews

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Dwight Brown National Newspaper Publishers Association 03/07/2017
This honorable and enlightening film pays due respect to Jackie Robinson -- a sports legend and courageous American hero. Go to Full Review Mick LaSalle San Francisco Chronicle 05/07/2014
3/4
A dramatization of what Robinson did and what it required, 42 will not disappoint. Go to Full Review Mary F. Pols TIME Magazine 05/07/2014
It's not easy to play a stoic, but Boseman anchors the movie, and when he smiles, 42, already such a warm story of such cold times, gets even brighter. Go to Full Review Ross Anthony Hollywood Report Card Jan 12
3/4
Solid cinematography, paced well, and propelled with the heart of a truly great, heroic story, this a film about character that seeks to help you define yours. Whether or not they like baseball, everyone in America should see it. Go to Full Review Alex Bentley CultureMap Jan 7
Helgeland and crew have succeeded in doing exactly what should have been done long ago: honoring the bravest baseball player America has ever known. Go to Full Review Mike McGranaghan Aisle Seat Dec 3
3/4
Even if it isn't the most in-depth telling of Robinson's extraordinary journey, it is nonetheless a marvelously entertaining tribute to a very important man. Go to Full Review Read all reviews

Audience Reviews

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Mitchell S @Mitchstur 1d It's inspiring and encouraging! Every time I watch an inspirational true story like this, I'm reminded that the impossible does happen in real life! See more Clarence H @clarencew 3d Excellent movie. Great cast, great attention to period detail. Very moving. Loved it. See more RiLO W. @RiLO- May 5 AMAZING, Chadwick Boseman and Harrison Ford delivered!! A truly inspiring story brought to the big screen. If you’re a baseball fan you will definitely love this one, even if not phenomenal movie. 👍 See more Cameron C. @RT89680683 Apr 27 Chadwick bosemans acting is amazing, he really makes you empathize for Jackie and what he had to go through. Harrison Ford is amazing in the movie as well. See more Austen T @AustenReviews Apr 24 One of the best Baseball movies out there since the Sandlot. See more Blake- N @PBSAniDom Apr 18 "42" is a powerful true-story sports drama about Jackie Robinson breaking MLB’s color barrier. It balances emotional storytelling with historical weight without over-dramatization. Chadwick Boseman delivers a grounded, compelling performance capturing Robinson’s strength under immense pressure, while Harrison Ford stands out as Branch Rickey, adding depth and conviction. Beyond baseball, the film highlights courage, dignity, and the harsh reality of racism in 1940s America. The pacing is steady, and the game scenes are engaging even for non-sports fans. While it follows a familiar biopic structure, its emotional impact and importance elevate it above standard sports films. A respectful, inspiring tribute to a legend. 9/10 See more Read all reviews
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Cast & Crew

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Brian Helgeland

Director

Chadwick Boseman

Jackie Robinson

Harrison Ford

Branch Rickey

Nicole Beharie

Rachel Robinson

Christopher Meloni

Leo Durocher

Ryan Merriman

Dixie Walker

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42

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42

Toby Huss as Clyde Sukeforth in "42." Chadwick Boseman as Jackie Robinson in "42." Chadwick Boseman as Jackie Robinson and Nicole Beharie as Rachel Robinson in "42." Chadwick Boseman (center) as Jackie Robinson in "42." (L-R) Brett Cullen as Clay Hopper, Chadwick Boseman as Jackie Robinson and Harrison Ford as Branch Rickey in "42." Chadwick Boseman as Jackie Robinson in "42." A scene from "42." (L-R) Harrison Ford as Branch Rickey and T.R. Knight as Harold Parrott in "42." T.R. Knight as Harold Parrott in "42." (L-R) Harrison Ford as Branch Rickey and T.R. Knight as Harold Parrott in "42." View more photos

Movie Info

Synopsis In 1946, Branch Rickey (Harrison Ford), legendary manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers, defies major league baseball's notorious color barrier by signing Jackie Robinson (Chadwick Boseman) to the team. The heroic act puts both Rickey and Robinson in the firing line of the public, the press and other players. Facing open racism from all sides, Robinson demonstrates true courage and admirable restraint by not reacting in kind and lets his undeniable talent silence the critics for him.
Director
Brian Helgeland
Producer
Thomas Tull
Screenwriter
Brian Helgeland
Distributor
Warner Bros. Pictures
Production Co
Legendary Pictures
Rating
PG-13 (Thematic Elements|Language)
Genre
Biography, History, Drama
Original Language
English
Release Date (Theaters)
Apr 12, 2013, Wide
Release Date (Streaming)
Oct 3, 2013
Box Office (Gross USA)
$95.1M
Runtime
2h 8m
Sound Mix
Datasat, SDDS, Dolby Digital
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