Such an amazing film! A perfect example of the ability sport has to go beyond the playing field and make a lasting impact on society as a whole. The personal anecdotes from former players and family members, and the emotion and pride that they exude, really helps to connect viewers to the story and decision made. A great example of young men who were more interested in the character and playing abilities of their teammates rather than their race. The film does a great job of truly shedding some light on an otherwise untold part of the history of football and race relations during the time period. Would definitely recommend to anyone who loves football and who also have an interest in the history of Civil Rights in the United States.
Add a Review
-
court-searls9 April 2015
-
mplavigna-921488 April 2015This is an amazing story about a group of young men standing up and doing the right thing despite external pressure to take the easy path. You will laugh and cry as you fall in love with heroes that most people today have never heard of. It is also a great historical piece, showing what society was like in sports and the united states during the 1950's. The film also does a great job of showing the values of the University of San Francisco and how progress the school was even back in the 50's. If you live in the bay area you will be proud of the University of San Francisco after watching this film. For college football fans, this is a must see.
-
jlvfast10 April 2015As Nelson Mandela said, "sport has the power to change the world," and 51 Dons is a great example of this. 51 Dons shows how the unification of a team has the power transcend barriers. This movie also shows how the value of teamwork and camaraderie is achieved and honored through overcoming oppression and going against social norms. Although 51 Dons is a story of racial segregation, the story and struggle depicted and told by these young athletes replicates itself throughout history even into modern day society (gender inequality in sport, diversity, and inclusion). If there is a sport movie out there can add a humane element to a historic tale, 51 dons is the movie to watch. You won't be disappointed.
-
blaburkett9 April 2015The story of the '51 Dons is inspirational as the young men of the USF Footballl team stood in solidarity to stand up for what they believed in. Following the incredible success of their performance on the field, it was no question they would be invited to a bowl game. To their surprise, they were allowed to participate under one condition... As long as their African-American teammates did not play. In the wake of the Civil Rights Movement that swept our nation, the team unanimously refused to compete under these conditions. The decision was made not due to the societal factors, but because of their intolerance of the bowl decision and out of respect of their teammates. Their decision ultimately resulted in the elimination of the USF football program but that wasn't their concern, this story is the perfect example of what teamwork should be about in modern day sports- standing up for what's right regardless of egos, selfishness, and unanticipated harsh consequences. This story flies under the radar in terms of media coverage of this event. This film is executed flawlessly and truly makes me proud to be an alumna of USF.
-
nebi-552439 April 2015It was truly a pleasure watching this film. A moving tribute and recount of a story that sheds light on heroes who do not get enough attention, nor respect. Many people who fought for societal change are often overlooked, but this film exemplified a special group of athletes that made a lasting impact on not just sports, but cultural norms in society. This film will take you back to one of the greatest college football seasons ever played by any team, and do so much more than tell you about the success they had on the field. A very well written storyline combined with a great educational experience make this film come to life. A must-watch for anyone interested in the sports world, and proof that the sports stage has the power to affect much more than the game itself.
-
ftblcoach3 May 2015This film was a tremendous joy to watch especially when Ollie Matson and Burl Toler were brought to the screen. The story was very ideally done. This film hits right to home with me, since I was on the 1951 Dons.
The story is quite factual and has a very true story. Every detail in this film was quite true and did not stray from the main facts. I was on this team and had a minor role in the film. i could have watched this film for the total number of 14 times it was shown,
The direction and publication were both tremendous. Any time this film will be shown again will not be time enough. Congradulation to the whole group responsible for this film and the rewards should be many. -
avprototype9 April 2015Excellent film! Film portrays the bravery and the strength of college students who stood up and did the right thing in face of societal norms. Highlights the unsung hero's of their time and the lasting effect their choices made on society, their university, their team and themselves. This film was very well made, not only do you get a first hand look from some of the players themselves but their family as well! This film highlights the first black referee in the NFL and the very first commissioner of the NFL. This story and USF is steeped in history! Well thought out and passionate movie, you will not be disappointed. I am glad this story was told!
-
Flats-210 February 2014I was bothered at first by the inconsistent presentation of the interviews. One subject was poorly lit where another seemed to be in a studio. One seemed to be caught at a cocktail party. Another was identified as "Nephew" without saying whose (I had to look it up; he was Matson's). But as I settled in for the payoff of this documentary, I was most chagrined that the most important part - the white players' decision refusing the Orange Bowl's demand to leave two black players at home - was not examined more closely at its nexus. It was not clear who delivered the message to the team, when it was delivered, how the Orange Bowl was informed, how Georgia Tech came to be selected to replace USF and contemporary reaction to the Dons' being snubbed. Later, there was only a passing mention of Brown v Board of Education being three years later but no mention of Rosa Parks being four years later in spite of Bob St. Clair's own bus story. The singing of "Good Night, Irene" was poignant, although having a clashing music bed under it was jarring. Burl Toler's legacy was well chronicled and a fitting tribute. But the rest of the documentary left me wanting something more - something that would seem 62+ years later to be perfunctory in the telling of this story.