The Express

Posted Oct 10, 2008 by Ryan Bauer

Updated Oct 10, 2008 at 08:57 AM

Welcome to Reel People. It’s a place where, you guessed it, real people like yourselves spout off on new movie releases. It works best if you—yes, we mean you—jump into the comments below and tell us what you think of the movie, too.

This week, we’re watching “The Express.”

What I liked: There were so many life messages throughout the movie that people have either forgotten or chosen to ignore. It’s a lot more than 1950’s racism. It’s about watching the country, its ideals, its direction and people’s change of thought process in this time period. There is no denying racism still exists in this country as does many other forms of discrimination, but it still blows my mind to think 50 years ago, how people would react to an African American even coming into the same restaurant as them. Now, we may live to see our first black President. Times have changed and its makes me wonder how much the country will change even more in the next 50 years.

What I disliked: There isn’t much I didn’t like about the film. There were some splashes of comedy, some genuine tear jerker moments that you weren’t ashamed to cover up, and some messages about human behavior that are undeniably important. The only criticism about the film is the underlying movie stereotypes about generational racism. There is always black discrimination with a white “hero” that wants to help out. In reality, I don’t think there is always a hero in everyone’s story.

Would I recommend it?: Yes. Even though this was set in a different time period, the messages in this film still lie true to this day. You don’t really understand where a person is coming from until you step into their shoes.

Score: 8 out of 10

- Michelle Schenck

What I liked: As Martin Luther King Jr. said in 1963, “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” In THE EXPRESS, Ernie Davis, superbly portrayed by Rob Brown, stands tall and smiles broadly, no matter who or what opposes him. Instead of another action packed, feel good football movie that becomes depressing and overly sentimental, this is an impressive, heartwarming, funny, motivational, and inspirational movie about an unforgettable football player’s life and experiences.

What I disliked: The filmmakers don’t pull any punches depicting the hate and discrimination that Davis and his peers face growing up in Pennsylvania and playing football in Syracuse.  It is uncomfortable to witness the lack of civil rights prevalent in the 1950’s and early 1960’s – especially, but not always, in the south.

Would I recommend it?: If the goal of this film is to motivate viewers to appreciate an exceptional young man, the people in his life, and his accomplishments, it scores a touchdown!  Football fans will enjoy this movie, as well as anyone who enjoys films about friendships, family values, and human rights.

Score: 9 out of 10

- Courtenay O’Connell