Race 2016
Directed by
Stephen Hopkins
Made by
Focus Features
Plot Summary
Discover the intricate plot of Race (2016). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
In the 1930s, a young African American athlete named Jesse Owens navigates the streets of Cleveland, Ohio, filled with aspirations of greatness. As he prepares to leave his childhood home, his mother beams with pride over her son’s achievements and finishes tailoring a new suit coat, insisting he is destined for extraordinary things. While the moment is bittersweet, Jesse gathers his belongings, exchanges heartfelt goodbyes with his father, and slips him a modest envelope containing $2.
Upon arriving at Ohio State University, Jesse and his coach, Larry Snyder, face a barrage of challenges. After a disappointing race meet, Larry is left questioning his future as a coach. In his office, he discovers files of promising athletes, among them Jesse. As Jesse meets his girlfriend, Ruth, while she works at a salon, he reassures her that he will return as a successful man. Their dreams of a future together hinge on Jesse’s ability to secure a scholarship and excel in his track events.
On campus, Jesse, along with his friend Dave, begins training but quickly encounters racial tensions. The hostility from the predominantly white football team forces them into uncomfortable situations, but Jesse perseveres, despite the challenges and the burden of working to support his family. After a chance meeting with Larry, Jesse gains a mentor, who encourages his talent and urges him to focus on the upcoming 1936 Berlin Olympics.
As Jesse trains rigorously, he wrestles with the burden of societal expectations and personal obligations, writing letters to Ruth and sending her money while his commitments weigh heavily on him. The contrasting backdrop of the Nazi regime in Germany is revealed through a US Olympic Committee meeting, where they contemplate boycotting the games amidst rising tensions.
In Berlin, the atmosphere is filled with propaganda and fear, yet Jesse’s competitive spirit thrives as he simultaneously faces and overcomes prejudice during his matches. Helping him navigate this fierce environment are allies like Leni Riefenstahl, who captures the essence of the games—though under the scrutiny of the regime. Jesse astonishes spectators with his talents, breaking records in multiple track events while receiving the wrath of crowds infested with prejudice.
His journey is not without personal trials. As Jesse navigates acceptance and heartache, including his reconciliation with Ruth, he faces the critical moments of making history. The climax arrives at the Olympics, with Jesse not only winning three gold medals but also embodying resilience against the political tension of the time.
After the accolades, however, Jesse finds that his victories come cloaked in bittersweet reality. Upon returning home, despite the triumphs recognized globally, he is met with continued segregation and discrimination, highlighting that the race for equality still looms large.
As we reflect on the events that transpired during this turbulent period, we are reminded of a message highlighting the challenges and triumphs faced, even as Jesse’s legacy as a champion and symbol of hope endures. In the aftermath, Jesse thrives in his family life but remains forever committed to raising awareness about equality and justice, urging future generations to strive for change.
Timeline
Track the key events of Race (2016) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Jesse's Aspirations Begin
In the 1930s, a young African American athlete named Jesse Owens dreams of greatness while growing up in Cleveland, Ohio. As he prepares to leave his family home, his mother expresses her pride, signaling the bittersweet transition of his life into adulthood.
Heartfelt Goodbyes
Before departing for college, Jesse exchanges emotional farewells with his father, conveying love and hope. He gives his father a modest envelope containing $2, showcasing his awareness of the financial struggles they face.
Arrival at Ohio State University
Upon arriving at Ohio State University, Jesse faces numerous challenges as he takes on the rigors of collegiate athletics. Alongside his coach, Larry Snyder, he navigates the disappointment of a poor race meet, which makes Larry question his future as a coach.
Meeting Ruth
While adjusting to campus life, Jesse meets his girlfriend Ruth, who works at a salon. Their relationship deepens as he reassures her of his commitment to becoming successful, which motivates both of them to envision a brighter future.
Confronting Racial Tensions
As Jesse trains with his friend Dave, they face significant racial hostility, particularly from the predominantly white football team. Despite this constant pressure, Jesse remains determined to prove his worth and secure a successful future.
A Mentor in Larry Snyder
A chance encounter with Larry Snyder leads to a pivotal mentorship for Jesse. Larry becomes a vital support figure, encouraging Jesse to focus on his running and to prepare for the upcoming Berlin Olympics, a moment that could change his life.
Balancing Training and Responsibilities
As Jesse trains for the Olympics, he struggles to balance the weight of societal expectations and personal responsibilities. He writes letters to Ruth and sends her money, reflecting the pressure he feels to provide for his family while pursuing his dreams.
Boycotting the Olympics
The US Olympic Committee considers a boycott of the 1936 Berlin Olympics due to the oppressive Nazi regime. This situation creates tension for athletes like Jesse, who must weigh their personal aspirations against the political climate.
Berlin's Oppressive Atmosphere
In Berlin, Jesse experiences an environment filled with propaganda and fear, yet his spirit remains unbroken. He faces prejudice head-on during the matches, showcasing his tenacity while navigating a challenging setting filled with spectators' hostility.
Breaking Records
Jesse astonishes the Olympics crowd by breaking records in multiple track events. His achievements not only highlight his athletic prowess but also defy the racial prejudices that loom over the games, making him a symbol of hope and resilience.
A Historic Achievement
At the climax of the Olympics, Jesse Owens wins three gold medals, marking a significant moment in sports history. His triumphs serve as both personal victories and a stance against the political tensions surrounding him at that time.
Return Home to Reality
Despite his international fame and accolades, Jesse returns home to encounter continued segregation and discrimination. This stark contrast between his Olympic triumphs and the American racial climate highlights the ongoing struggles for equality.
Legacy of Hope
Jesse Owens's legacy endures as he becomes a symbol of perseverance and hope amidst adversity. His journey reiterates the importance of equality and justice, inspiring future generations to continue the fight for change.
Commitment to Equality
In the aftermath of his successes, Jesse fully commits to raising awareness about racial injustices. He uses his status to advocate for change, reminding everyone of the ongoing battle for equality that lies ahead.
Characters
Meet the characters that bring Race (2016) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Jesse Owens
Jesse Owens is a young, talented athlete driven by his dreams and the support of his family. As he navigates the complexities of training and competing, he embodies resilience against racial prejudice and societal expectations. Jesse's determination to succeed despite the obstacles around him highlights his strength and character.
Larry Snyder
Larry Snyder serves as Jesse Owens' coach and mentor, guiding him through the challenges of competitive racing. His support is crucial in helping Jesse focus on his potential, encouraging him to rise above adversity and pursue his goals at the highest level. Larry's belief in Jesse reflects the transformative power of mentorship.
Ruth
Ruth is Jesse Owens' girlfriend, symbolizing both love and support as Jesse navigates his demanding athletic journey. Her hope and encouragement for Jesse to succeed reveal the personal stakes involved in his races. Their relationship embodies the emotional investment and challenges in achieving dreams.
Leni Riefenstahl
Leni Riefenstahl is a filmmaker who captures the essence of the Olympics amidst a politically charged atmosphere. Her presence as Jesse competes showcases the complexities of art and propaganda, as she documents his triumphs under the scrutiny of the Nazi regime, contributing to a narrative of resilience.
Setting
Uncover the settings of Race (2016), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
1930s
The 1930s were marked by significant political turbulence, including the rise of the Nazi regime in Germany and the looming threat of global conflict. This era witnessed stark racial tensions in America, exacerbated by the challenges faced by African American athletes like Jesse Owens, who fought for recognition and equality while pursuing their dreams on the world stage.
Location
Cleveland, Ohio, Berlin
Cleveland, Ohio, is where Jesse Owens begins his journey as a young athlete, surrounded by aspirations and the weight of his family's hopes. As he trains for the Olympics, the contrasting city of Berlin becomes the backdrop for his greatest challenges, where athletic competition takes place amid the oppressive atmosphere of the Nazi regime.
Themes
Explore the core themes of Race (2016). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
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Perseverance
Jesse Owens' journey epitomizes perseverance in the face of adversity. Throughout his training and competitions, he overcomes racial hostility and personal struggles, showing that unwavering commitment to one's goals can lead to remarkable achievements. His story resonates as a testament to resilience against social injustices.
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Equality
The theme of equality is prevalent as Jesse confronts segregation and discrimination despite his monumental successes at the Olympics. His victories symbolize the ongoing race for social justice, serving as a powerful reminder that the fight for equality extends beyond the realm of sports.
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