Ruby Bridges

I like real stories and this won't disappoint as far as the story itself. The way they told the story seemed disconnected a few times, but that happens frequently when you're trying to see months of someone's life in less than 2 hours. There were a few scenes that were difficult to watch because of the hatred in them, but it was mild compared to the way it truly was, I have no doubt.

This film details the effects of racism on a first grader sent to an all white school in Louisiana in 1960. The child, Ruby Bridges, must endure the taunts of bigots in the street to protest her enrollment. What's even worse is that she encounters a bigoted teaching staff led by a vicious, prejudiced school administrator. Diana Scarwid catches the essence of bigotry in her performance. However, it is never pointed out who exactly she represents. Is she the principal, superintendent or school secretary? No matter who she is, she is the epitome of bigotry.

The film deals with the psychological trauma affecting Ruby and her family.

The child playing Ruby is just wonderful. Other acting kudos must go to the teacher who plays Mrs. Henry. She is kind and understanding. Kevin Pollak gives a wonderfully understated performance as the psychologist working with Ruby and her parents. Michael Beach is excellent as the father, who loses his job, during this situation and is bitter against everyone: Black neighbors who feel increasing pressure, a Jewish store owner who is pressured in telling Beach not to come into the store, and NAACP officials who he feels are not doing enough.

The film is an excellent one for trying to break down the religious and racial barriers that affect us all.

Those films that hurt in the soul ... If it hurt to watch, I can't imagine what it would be like to live an act of racism ... It seems impossible to have such a brave little girl, beautiful family, that education and character, is priceless ... Ruby Bridges, fought bravely for a lot, a biography that is needed, deserved, exciting, delicate, courageous, faithful, very proud of this Disney production... Barbara Henry and Robert Coles honorable mention and necessary support to little Ruby, teacher and psychologist...

I watched this today for the first time because in my local school district a parent complained about it being viewed by students during Black History Month, so it has been removed. It has been a staple for years, but this year many children won't get to see it, because of one person who would fit right in with those screaming white people portrayed in the movie, though they have learned to use a more subtle technique, but sure just as prejudiced. Some of the reviews here saying that it shouldn't viewed by children astonish me. How can one possibly make sense of it being okay for a six year old to live through this experience, but not okay for another child to see what happens when people fail to accept others. Yes, children need to see this movie, especially if it means they learn something that their parents aren't willing to teach them.

Not great cinematic art, granted, but the sweet spirit and sharp intellect of the real person Ruby Bridges comes across and the era is by and large accurately portrayed. For Disney, this is excellent. Michael Beach is quite good, as is Diana Scarwid, and Chaz Monet is wonderful in the title role. Robert Coles, M.D., played by Kevin Pollak, has written many books about children in crisis. I lived in this era. The marshals were dignified, the "cheerleaders" appalling, that little girl one of the greatest heroines who ever lived. It's worth watching.