Over the years, filmmakers often have found compelling narratives by combining sports and racial issues. So, it isn’t too much of a surprise that another story is being pulled from history’s archives.
Director Stephen Hopkins brings us “Race,” the story of Jesse Owens, the African-American athlete who broke a record by winning four gold medals at the 1936 Olympics in Nazi-era Berlin.
When Owens (Stephan James) starts at Ohio State University, he is the first of his family to make it to college. In some respects, he is your semi-typical college kid, trying to balance school with a job to support his family—he and his girlfriend have a little girl. But there are two characteristics that make him stand out. One is the color of his skin, and two, his track and field career. He is fast.
In his cavalier, yet stern manner, coach Larry Snyder (Jason Sudeikis) immediately zeroes in on Owens, and the two embark on an incredible journey that will bring the young man straight to the 1936 games. But, as the Olympics are slated to take place in Germany, there are many who want to boycott to show their disapproval of the Nazi regime. Owens must decide between taking the rare opportunity to test his skills at the world’s greatest sporting competition and boycotting the games in defense of the rights of persecuted minorities.
The biopic that follows is fascinating, both in terms of equal rights issues and in telling the story of Owens’ climb to the top. Jeremy Irons plays Avery Brundage, then president of the International Olympic Committee, who must fight to keep the United States in the games.
Also included in the story is Leni Riefenstahl (Carice van Houten), the director of “Olympia,” a documentary of the 1936 Olympics. Here, Riefenstahl is just another shade of color that the Nazis aim to control—though she sees her film as an opportunity to make art, no matter the employer. The theme of integrity is prevalent throughout the film, something that Owens must grapple with throughout his stay in Germany.
James and Sudeikis give solid performances. James adds a layer of depth to an already likeable character, and Sudeikis surprises with his straightforward performance. Together, they garner an onscreen relationship that is sure to surprise and charm audiences.
Yes, “Race” has the typical ring of a biopic, but it is ingrained with a sense of hope and community brought about by diversity. The film is coming soon to the Midtown Cinema—don’t miss it!
March Special Events
The Late Shift
“Kill Bill” Double Feature
Volume 1
Saturday, March 5, 9:30 p.m.
Volume 2
Saturday, March 5, 11:55 p.m.
Down in Front!
“Attack of the 50 Foot Woman”
Friday, March 11, 9:30 p.m.
Classic Film Series
“Arsenic and Old Lace”
Sunday, March 13, 6 p.m.
3rd in the Burg $3 Movie
“Miss Congeniality”
Friday, March 18, 9:30 p.m.
Faulkner-Honda Family Film Series
“Spy Kids”
Saturday, March 19, 12 p.m.
Sunday, March 20, 2 p.m.
Digital Theatre Series
“As You Like It”
Sunday, March 20, 3 p.m.
15th Anniversary
“Amelie”
Saturday, March 26, 8 p.m.
