Summary

Inspired by the remarkable story of Wiley College’s winning debate team of the early 1930s. Set against the backdrop of the Jim Crow South, THE GREAT DEBATERS chronicles the journey of the Wiley College debate team—coached by the brilliant and passionate professor Melvin B. Tolson. It was Tolson’s recognition that the power of knowledge is the greatest advantage of all, which brought these students from underdogs to victors in a time when more than the odds were against them.

Cast

Denzel Washington … Melvin B. Tolson

Nate Parker … Henry Lowe

Jurnee Smollett … Samantha Booke

Denzel Whitaker … James Farmer Jr.

Jermaine Williams … Hamilton Burgess

Forest Whitaker … Dr. James Farmer Sr.

Gina Ravera … Ruth Tolson

John Heard … Sheriff Dozier

Kimberly Elise … Pearl Farmer

Release Dates

USA 11 December 2007 (Hollywood, California) (premiere)

Canada 25 December 2007

USA 25 December 2007