THE GREAT WHITE HOPE (1970) C widescreen 102m dir: Martin Ritt

w/James Earl Jones, Jane Alexander, Lou Gilbert, Joel Fluellen, Chester Morris, Robert Webber, Marlene Warfield, R.G. Armstrong, Hal Holbrook, Beah Richards

From Variety's review of the film: "In its telling of the quasi-fictionalized public life of famed black heavyweight champ, circa 1910, Jack Johnson, the film's pacing and gritty cynicism resembles the best of the old Warner Bros Depression dramas; but in the distended playout of the fighter's tragic private life via involvement with a white woman, the picture sags.

"However, a superior cast, headed by James Earl Jones encoring in his stage role, a colorful and earthy script, plus outstanding production, render film quite palatable.

"Jones's re-creation of his stage role is an eye-riveting experience. The towering rages and unrestrained joys of which his character was capable are portrayed larger than life."

Jones and Alexander were nominated for Best Actor and Actress Oscars, respectively, for their performances.