The Great DebatersOverview and Synopsis

The Great Debaters
Opened December 25, 2007 | Runtime:2 hr. 3 min.
PG-13
depiction of strong thematic material including violence and disturbing images, and for language and brief sexuality
Professor Melvin Tolson, a brilliant but volatile debate team coach, uses the power of words to shape a group of underdog students from a small African American college in the deep south into a historically elite debate team. A controversial Read More
Cast: Denzel Washington, Forest Whitaker, Nate Parker, Jurnee Smollett, Denzel Whitaker
Director: Denzel Washington
Genres: Period Film, Drama, Inspirational Drama

Critic Reviews

"...initially comes off as easily dismissible. Largely saving it from that fate is the presence and ability of Denzel Washington..." Los Angeles Times
- Kenneth Turan
"...the film is bolstered by terrific performances and an inspiring underdog tale." USA Today
- Claudia Puig
"...The Great Debaters is first and foremost a history lesson, albeit of the most accessible, formulaic and Stanley Kramer-like variety." Variety
- Todd McCarthy