June 2, 2016

Review: Race-The Movie

On Monday 30th May I had the pleasure of attending the pre-screening of the movie, Race, at the Soho Hotel-the night was hosted by Melanie Eusebe.

Before attending the pre-screening I did a bit of research about the film and learned that it is based on the real life story of an American and Olympian hero- Jesse Owens. At the time that’s all I knew and I had no idea that this film was about hardship, determination, love and the power of our human race.

It was refreshing to see such an inspiring message come through a film that didn’t portray black people in a negative light. Jesse Owens was played by Stephan James who did a great job in conveying just how great of a sportsman Jesse Owens was and how much he had to deal with at the time- not only as an athlete, but as a black man, father and a son, trying to be great in his field during a time of hardship and segregation. It was 1933 when I believe Jesse first enrolled at Ohio State University and was spotted by his Coach and soon to be Friend Lawrence Snyder.

Throughout the film you witnessed moments of heartbreak, as you did moments of joy. There were specific times in the film when I was on the edge of my seat because you could really feel the tension each time Owens went to take a long jump or every time you heard ‘ya’ll coloured folk gotta use the other door!’.

The top two lessons I took home with me were:

1. You cannot drive out hate with hate only love can do that.

2. We are not built on our exterior or by the things we own- it is our talent and courage that can build the best version of ourselves

The film made me realise that just like Jesse believed he could achieve his dreams- we can do whatever we put our mind to- just like him.

Race hits cinema’s on Friday 3rd June. 

To find out where to watch the movie check their official twitter 

@racemovieuk

Shannie Mears 

Ambassador, Girls Talk London

Follow Shannie on Twitter @shannieloves