Race (2016)

The film Race encompasses this man’s impressive and dedicated journey Through many hardships during the 1930’s, Along the way, Jesse meets Lawrence “Larry” Snyder, Played by Jason Sudeikis, (We’re The Millers, Saturday Night Live).Larry, Jesse’s track coach, offers him the chance to compete in the 1936 Olympic Games. The global event was held in Berlin, Germany, during the era of Hitler’s reign and extreme public discrimination towards minorities.

The film does well to capture this time of discrimination, especially in Germany with the spreading beliefs of Hitler. This adds conflict in the film, as Jesse and his team debate the value of attending the Olympics

Lead actor Stephan James (Selma), offers audiences a glance at these events, occurring at a controversial time in society. James adds qualities of proficiency and ease to his portrayal of the athlete. Sudeikis’s role as Jesse’s track coach is also portrayed well, as their relationship adds complexity to the film

Director Stephen Hopkins’ attempt to create a story that demonstrates authenticity and biographical truth, is somewhat underwhelmingly inadequate. With several scenes lacking in character movement, this is highly time-consuming for the film. When characters are moving up and around in the film, this catches the audience’s’ attention.

Though it tries to be just as successful as similar sport dramas, Race offers a fun time at the movies, however it is very slow at getting to finish line.

Rate: B-