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The Jackie Robinson Story Review

For Families provided by Common Sense Media

OK for kids 7+

1950s biopic feel naive, but Robinson plays himself.

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that The Jackie Robinson Story is a dramatization of the life of the famous baseball player. The biography is forthright about the racial issues that factored into Robinson's challenges and successes, but inevitably appears somewhat naive by today's standards.

  • Families can talk about other sports figures who have overcome prejudice. What other kinds of discrimination have athletes faced over time?
  • How realistic a depiction of Robinson's history do you think this is? Does the fact that Robinson plays himself make it feel more accurate? How would this movie be different if it was made today?

The good stuff
  • educationalvalue true2

    Educational value: This dramatization of the history of Jackie Robinson's life story teaches about an important historical figure and America's struggle with race relations.

  • message true4

    Messages: The movie is full of inspiring messages about standing up for what's right, persevering despite painful challenges, and doing your best.

  • rolemodels true4

    Role models: Jackie Robinson (who plays himself in the film) is a role model because of his skill at baseball and his ability to persevere through the difficulties of being an African-American player in a racist environment.

What to watch for
  • violence false1

    Violence and scariness: Racist anger directed at the hero, some threats, and discussion of fights.

  • sex false1

    Sexy stuff: Some mild romance.

  • language false0

    Language: Not an issue

  • consumerism false0

    Consumerism: Not an issue

  • drugsalcoholtobacco false1

    Drinking, drugs and smoking: Some period-appropriate smoking.

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© Common Sense Media Inc. 2010. All rights reserved.

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