The Real Great Debaters of Wiley College
“The story that inspired a film. The achievement that inspired a nation.”
Synopsis
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.
Top Cast
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Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Brad Osborne
- Original Title
- The Real Great Debaters of Wiley College
- Spoken Languages
- English
- Runtime
- 1h 14m
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Brad Osborne
Department Leadership Roster
Brad Osborne
Director
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for The Real Great Debaters of Wiley College.
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Real Great Debaters of Wiley College
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is The Real Great Debaters of Wiley College about?
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.
Who directed The Real Great Debaters of Wiley College?
The Real Great Debaters of Wiley College was directed by Brad Osborne.
Who stars in The Real Great Debaters of Wiley College?
The principal cast of The Real Great Debaters of Wiley College includes Gail Beil, Eleanor Boswell, Thomas Freeman, Lewis Keys, Nate Parker.
When was The Real Great Debaters of Wiley College released and how long is it?
The Real Great Debaters of Wiley College was released in 2008 with a total runtime of 1h 14m.