Great Debaters, The

The Great Debaters (2007) is an inspiring drama based on the true story of the Wiley College debate team in the 1930s. Directed by and starring Denzel Washington, the film follows Professor Melvin B. Tolson, who coaches a group of African American students from the small, historically black college in Texas. Under Tolson’s rigorous guidance, the team rises to national prominence, challenging the racial barriers of the time by competing against—and eventually facing—Harvard University, the nation’s top debate team. The film explores themes of perseverance, the fight for civil rights, and the power of education. It showcases the team’s intellectual prowess and their courage in standing up to racism and injustice during the Jim Crow era.