The Great Debaters

Set in the 1930s, a determined debate coach at a small black college builds a squad of overlooked students into a formidable team. Tolson, a brilliant yet provocative mentor, pushes them to master research, timing, and fearless rhetoric as they prepare to challenge elite opponents. The Wiley College debaters, led by James Farmer Jr. and joined by Henry Lowe and Samantha Booke, travel to hostile campuses and courtroom-like rounds where every point counts. The film follows their evolution from shy questioners into confident speakers who must balance pride, loyalty, and the glare of a racially charged era. Through disciplined practice and stubborn belief, they convert doubt into momentum and help ignite a broader conversation about justice. Debate goes public today.

Directed by Denzel Washington in his debut behind the camera, The Great Debaters brings to life the real Wiley College debate squad that defied the odds in the 1930s on screen, drawing on a documented history of their unlikely triumphs.

The film cost about 15 million to make and grossed around 30.2 million worldwide, a return that affirmed Washington's move into directing and audiences' interest in a principled historical drama. Box office performance was praised as proof of audience appetite.

Wiley College's tradition of competitive debate is highlighted and the film drew attention to historically black colleges' role in shaping conversations. It remains a notable sports drama for its emphasis on intellect over intimidation. It helped bring Wiley College into consciousness and inspired generations to see debate as change worldwide.

Critics praised the cast's earnest performances and the film's focus on ambition, mentorship, and civil rights era tensions. It treats speech as power and debate as a path to dignity, offering a hopeful portrait of perseverance under pressure and social progress for students seeking courage and community through debate today.