42

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42

PG-13

2013

2h 8m

Biography

History

Drama

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Popcornmeter

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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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.

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Mick LaSalle

San Francisco Chronicle

05/07/2014

3/4

A dramatization of what Robinson did and what it required, 42 will not disappoint.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Mitchell S

@Mitchstur Aug 4

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!

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Clarence H

@clarencew Aug 2

Excellent movie. Great cast, great attention to period detail. Very moving. Loved it.

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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. 👍

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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.

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Austen T

@AustenReviews Apr 24

One of the best Baseball movies out there since the Sandlot.

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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

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Brian Helgeland

Director

Chadwick Boseman

Jackie Robinson

Harrison Ford

Branch Rickey

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Christopher Meloni

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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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