Black and Blue Trailer
Black and Blue
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2m 5s
Experience the gripping, untold saga of friendship and courage against the backdrop of 1934 America in "Black and Blue: The Story of Gerald Ford, Willis Ward, and the 1934 Michigan-Georgia Tech Football Game."
In an era when Jim Crow laws cast a dark shadow over college football, one game ignited a fierce debate that would echo through history. Georgia Tech traveled to Ann Arbor to play the Michigan Wolverines, only to demand that Michigan’s star player, Willis Ward, an African-American standout from Detroit, be benched. What followed was a story of solidarity that transcends the sport.
As tensions flared, the University of Michigan faced a moral dilemma. Ultimately, they bowed to Georgia Tech's demands, sidelining Willis Ward. This decision sent shockwaves through the team, igniting the anger of Ward’s teammates, especially his closest friend: Jerry Ford, a towering lineman from Grand Rapids. Ford’s resolve was unwavering; he threatened to quit the team in protest.
In a poignant turning point, Ward personally asked Ford to play on, and Ford, moved by his friend's plea, took to the field. Channeling his anger into unmatched determination, Ford delivered the performance of a lifetime. The Wolverines, inspired by his valor, secured their sole victory of the 1934 season.
"Black and Blue" is more than a sports documentary—it's a powerful narrative of friendship, resilience, and the fight against injustice. Witness the incredible journey of Gerald Ford, who went on to become the 38th President of the United States, and Willis Ward, whose legacy as a trailblazer continues to inspire. This film sheds light on a pivotal moment that shaped both men and marked a significant stride towards equality in American sports.
Don't miss this extraordinary story of how a game of football became a game-changer in the fight for civil rights. Tune in to "Black and Blue" and be inspired by a tale of loyalty, courage, and the enduring power of friendship.