Pop Culture Journal: Brief Screening Report: 42

One scene that I feel is one of the most important parts of the movie is starting at timing number 9:07 when Jack Robinson gets invited to Mr. Rickey’s office to talk about playing on a white major baseball league. The scene starts off with Robinson in Mr. Rickey’s office saying, “what is this about?” Mr. Rickey gets right to the point and tells Robinson what he wants him to do- play for Montreal and then hopefully play for the Brooklyn Dodgers. He tells him the amount he will pay Robinson. By Robinsons face, it can be said he is overwhelmed and confused. Without letting Robinson say a word, he asks him is he can control his temper and uses examples that will occur if he accepts this offer. He harasses Robinson, provoking him, trying to see how Robinson may react. Angry and flustered, Robinson stands up and asks, “Do you want a player who doesn’t have the guts to fight back?” Rickey knew exactly what to say- “I want a player who has the guts not to fight back.” Robinson considers the idea for a few moments, then smiles. “You give me the uniform,” he says to Rickey, “and I’ll give you the guts.”

            This scene sets up the way that Jackie is going to have to fight this battle. Robinson was a fighter. He wouldn’t have been able to break this barrier is otherwise. This part shows how this fight will have to be fought with grace and patience. It also introduces his way into a major baseball league. This scene is why and how Robinson was picked to play baseball on an all white league.