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CHICAGO — The Chicago International Film Festival has kicked off in grand style, showcasing a vibrant selection of films from across the globe. Attendees are in for a cinematic treat as the festival promises to deliver engaging stories and captivating visuals.
The festival’s opening night was marked by the premiere of “One Golden Summer,” a poignant film chronicling the story of the Jackie Robinson West Little League team from 2014. The film delves into the team’s thrilling victory and the subsequent fallout of their championship journey.
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The premiere, held at the iconic Music Box Theatre, served as a heartfelt reunion for the former teammates, bringing back memories of their shared accomplishments and the challenges they faced. It was a moment of nostalgia and pride for those who once captured the city’s affection as young athletes hailing from Chicago’s South Side.
The Jackie Robinson West team made history by becoming the first all-Black team to clinch the U.S. Baseball Championship, an achievement that resonated deeply within the community and beyond. Despite their dream ultimately unraveling, their story remains a powerful testament to perseverance and unity.
The Jackie Robinson West Little Leaguers became the first all-Black team to win the U.S. Baseball Championship.
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.
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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.
