The Chicago International Film Festival has kicked off in grand fashion, showcasing a diverse array of films from various corners of the globe. Movie enthusiasts are in for a treat as the festival promises a lineup of cinematic gems.
The festival’s opening night was marked by the screening of the much-anticipated film, “One Golden Summer.” This captivating movie recounts the inspiring yet tumultuous story of the 2014 Jackie Robinson West Little League team, delving into their momentous victory and subsequent downfall.
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Held at the iconic Music Box Theatre, the premiere turned into a heartfelt reunion for the former teammates, stirring emotions as they reminisced about their shared journey. These young athletes from Chicago’s South Side once captured the city’s heart with their extraordinary talent and resilience.
The Jackie Robinson West team made history by becoming the first all-Black squad to clinch the U.S. Baseball Championship, an achievement that resonated deeply within the community. However, their triumph was overshadowed by a controversy ignited by a rival coach, who questioned the legitimacy of the players’ residential boundaries.
This dispute ultimately led to the revocation of their title, a decision that left a lasting impact on the team and their supporters. Despite this setback, the story of the Jackie Robinson West Little Leaguers remains a poignant chapter in the annals of sports history, as portrayed in the festival’s opening film.
But a rival coach sparked a controversy over where the kids lived and boundary rules. The title was stripped.
“One Golden Summer” lets the players tell their truth.
“It gave the young guys an opportunity to kind of mature and think about what happened,” filmmaker Kevin Shaw said. “You’re only 12 years old, when that all happened, you know. And it’s a whirlwind of emotions.”
“I was like every Chicagoan: I fell in love with this story in 2014. I saw these young men. I wanted to tell their story,” producer Bob Teitel said.
Some of the team is still playing ball; most have thriving careers.
“As time went on, there was a step of maturity. We learned how to be resilient and confident in each other because of the brotherhood. And I think that’s what molded us today,” said DJ Butler, a baseball player finishing a master’s degree.
“It’s really nice to have this much support around us; it’s been 10 years. It feels really good,” high school coach Josh Houston said.
Chicago supported the team.
“Back then, we were a family together. They showed support,” music artist Darion Radcliff said.
“I feel like it just taught us a lot about life at a young age; you got a chance to see the perspective of the good and the bad,” aspiring chef Pierce Jones said.
“I’m just glad our story is finally out there and people will understand what we did for the city and how it affected the city,” professional baseball player Marquis Jackson said.
“It made us who we are as men, as young men who know discipline, and know how to attack the world and know how to attack adversity,” professional baseball player Tre Hondras said.
There’s another chance to see “One Golden Summer” at a special showing at the Chicago History Museum.
It’s this Saturday afternoon at 2 p.m.
There are a lot more amazing movies at the Chicago Film Festival through Oct. 26.
