The Real Great Debaters of Wiley College

The Real Great Debaters of Wiley College (2008)

The story that inspired a film. The achievement that inspired a nation.

  • Genre: Documentary
  • Release Date: 2008-09-10
  • Runtime: 1h 14min
  • Language: English
  • Director: Brad Osborne

Summary

Inspired by the critically acclaimed Hollywood film The Great Debaters, The Real Great Debaters of Wiley College unveils the true story of Wiley College’s 1935 debate team and their groundbreaking defeat of the all-white reigning national championship debate team at the University of Southern California. Shattering racial stereotypes and overcoming adversity against great odds, these courageous young debaters emerged triumphant, commanding not only the respect of their peers... but of the nation. Influenced by their coach Melvin B. Tolson, the Wiley College debaters would go on to devote their talents to the causes of civil justice and social progress and become leaders in the Civil Rights Movement. The film comes full-circle, as the legacies of The Great Debaters inspire Wiley’s new debate team as it seeks to reclaim its glory on the national stage.

The Real Great Debaters of Wiley College Trailer

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  • Gail Beil

    as Self
  • Eleanor Boswell

    as Self
  • Thomas Freeman

    as Self
  • Lewis Keys

    as Self
  • Nate Parker

    as Self
  • Adam Clayton Powell III

    as Self
  • Haywood Strickland

    as Self
  • Harry Thomas

    as Self
  • Melvin B. Tolson Jr.

    as Self
  • Arthur Tolson

    as Self
Directing Brad Osborne Director

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