Follow the inspirational life of college football hero Ernie Davis, the first African-American to win the Heisman Trophy.
Acting
Rob Brown captures Davis's quiet dignity; Omar Benson Miller steals every scene.
Production
Period-perfect 1959-1962 college football atmosphere, from uniforms to segregated hotels.
Writing
The Cotton Bowl confrontation scene—historical accuracy with devastating punch.
Director
Gary Fleder
Rob Brown
Ernie Davis
Dennis Quaid
Ben Schwartzwalder
Darrin Henson
Jim Brown
Omar Benson Miller
Jack Buckley
Nelsan Ellis
Will Davis, Jr.
Charles S. Dutton
Willie 'Pops' Davis
Justin Martin
Young Ernie
Nicole Beharie
Sarah Ward
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor
Marie Davis
Clancy Brown
Roy Simmons
Danny McCarthy
Bill Bell
Regina Hoyles
Sister
Chelcie Ross
Lew Andreas
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
The real 1960 Cotton Bowl was even uglier—Davis was targeted with racial slurs from both Texas players AND fans, which the film softened for PG-13 audiences.
US
