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Movie Review: “Pride”
By Kimberly Lilly, 04.18.07
Jim Ellis (Terrence Howard) restores pride as a swim coach for inner city youth.
In its opening “Pride” seems to be just another sports movie, however as the film progresses it becomes obvious that there is more to the movie. “Pride” serves as a reminder to the black community that their life purpose is just as important as all other ethnic group.
Successfully depicting U.S. history by showing acts of racism suffered by blacks in the early ‘70s, “Pride” is an educational, entertaining and encouraging movie for the entire family.
The film tells the story of Jim Ellis (Terrence Howard) a competitive swimmer with a degree in mathematics who can’t land a job other than at the Philadelphia Department of Recreation (PDR). Ellis’ is responsible for cleaning up the recreation center that is being closed down. After discovering a pool in the facility, Ellis cleans it out and uses it as a tool for bringing youth into the center in order to avoid its closing.
As swim coach of the PDR team, Ellis becomes a father figure to Walt (Alphonso McAuley), Andre (Kevin Phillips), Reggie (Evan Ross), Hakim (Nate Parker), Puddin Head (Brandon Fobbs) and Willie (Regine Nehy).
“I believe in them so much. There’s so much they can do,” says Ellis during a PDR swim team practice.
Ellis’ constant encouragement and long hours of coaching prove to be effective during the first swim meet at the PDR center.
A great story line and good acting make “Pride” a must see movie. A variety of action, drama, comedy and history enhances its appeal and makes it a grade A movie.
Familiar faces in the movie include Bernie Mac who plays Elston, a humorous custodian and Kimberly Elise as Sue Davis, a local city council member.
“Pride,” an inspirational black film directed by Sunu Gonera, opened in theatres on March 23. The film, which debuted at number nine on box office charts, is based on a true story.
