The Great Debaters(2007)
“When the nation was in need, he inspired them to give us hope.”
Overview
The true story of a brilliant but politically radical debate team coach who uses the power of words to transform a group of underdog African-American college students into a historical powerhouse that took on the Harvard elite.
Director
Denzel Washington
Studio
Marshall Production
Budget
$15M
Revenue
$30M
Cast
Denzel Whitaker
as James Farmer Jr.
Denzel Washington
as Melvin B. Tolson
Nate Parker
as Henry Lowe
Jurnee Smollett
as Samantha Booke
Forest Whitaker
as Dr. James Farmer Sr.
Kimberly Elise
as Pearl Farmer
Jermaine Williams
as Hamilton Burgess
Gina Ravera
as Ruth Tolson
John Heard
as Sheriff Dozier
Devyn A. Tyler
as Helen Farmer
Trenton McClain Boyd
as Nathaniel Farmer
Ritchie Montgomery
as Deputy
Where to Watch
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Movie Facts
Release Year
2007
Runtime
2h 6m
Language
English
Rating
7.3 / 10
Budget
$15M
Box Office
$30M
Production Companies
Marshall Production • The Weinstein Company • Harpo Films
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I watch The Great Debaters?▼
Check the "Where to Watch" section above for current streaming platforms, rental options, and purchase links for The Great Debaters (2007).
What is The Great Debaters about?▼
The true story of a brilliant but politically radical debate team coach who uses the power of words to transform a group of underdog African-American college students into a historical powerhouse that took on the Harvard elite.
Who directed The Great Debaters?▼
The Great Debaters was directed by Denzel Washington and released in 2007. It is a drama film.
How long is The Great Debaters?▼
The Great Debaters has a runtime of 2 hours and 6 minutes (126 minutes total).
Who stars in The Great Debaters?▼
The cast of The Great Debaters includes Denzel Whitaker as James Farmer Jr., Denzel Washington as Melvin B. Tolson, Nate Parker as Henry Lowe, Jurnee Smollett as Samantha Booke, Forest Whitaker as Dr. James Farmer Sr. and more.
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