The Short List of Things to Do

A guide to what you should see and what you should skip — and what you won't be able to avoid

The Great Debaters

David Lee / The Weinstein Company
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In 1935 the poet and teacher Melvin Tolson coached the debating team of all-black Wiley College to victories against top universities. Washington plays the Tolson role with his usual tamped-down rage. He directs this winning film in a tone that is inspirational and not a little angry, like a civil rights march moving to the cadence of gospel hymns.

Grade: B+

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