Jackie Robinson: Breaking Barriers

Baseball may be America's favorite pastime, but for Jackie Robinson it wasn't just about hitting the grand slam; it was a chance to bring equality one step closer to home. Celebrating the life of the first Black ballplayer, this commemorative video, narrated by Ossie Davis, marks the 50th anniversary of Robinson's debut as a Dodger. From his birth in 1919 to his early demise of diabetes at age 53, family, friends and fans recount the legendary Hall of Famer's life, proving Robinson broke barriers since the beginning -- whether it was fighting in the segregated army during World War II or facing death threats for simply wanting to play ball. But there is one strike: a drawn-out self-endorsement on the benefits of The Jackie Robinson Foundation, which offers scholarships to Black students (a portion of the proceeds go to the fund, of course). Otherwise, it's a compelling bio on the legendary life of number 42--a jersey no ballplayer, regardless of race, can ever quite fill again. A strong optional purchase. Aud: J, H, C, P. (M. K. Lau)