Movie spotlight
Big Fella
Singing Marseilles docker Joe is hired by wealthy English couple, the Oliphants, to find their missing son Gerald. When Joe finds him, he learns Gerald escaped of his own will and takes him to stay with a local singer, who offers a refuge from his repressed white parents.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young black jockey from Jamaica arrives in England with dreams of winning the Derby. Despite facing prejudice and challenges, he perseveres with the help of a kind trainer. His talent shines through, leading to a chance at the biggest race of his life.
Critical Reception
Big Fella was a notable film for its time, praised for its sympathetic portrayal of a black jockey and its exciting horse-racing sequences. It was seen as an inspirational story that tackled racial themes with sensitivity, though some contemporary reviews noted its somewhat melodramatic elements.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its timely and sensitive depiction of a black jockey overcoming adversity.
The horse racing scenes are thrilling and well-executed.
A heartwarming and inspirational sports drama.
Google audience: Audience reception information is not readily available for this early film.
Fun Fact
The film was based on the true story of the jockey George D. Brown and his success in British racing.
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