The Movie Script That Moved Denzel Washington: Why He Felt a Deep Emotional Connection

Denzel Washington is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of his generation, a title earned through years of powerful performances in some of cinema’s most unforgettable films, from Glory to Training Day to American Gangster. His ability to convey complex emotions with depth and authenticity has made him a household name, and his contributions to the film industry extend beyond acting—Washington has also stepped behind the camera, directing films that resonate on a deeply personal level. One such film is The Great Debaters (2007), a project that left an emotional mark on Washington, one that he continues to carry with him.

A Deep Emotional Connection

In an interview with Oprah Winfrey, Washington opened up about the profound emotional impact the screenplay of The Great Debaters had on him. “Man, it just moved me. I felt an emotional connection,” he said. Based on Robert Eisele’s screenplay and a 1997 article by Tony Scherman for American Legacy, the film tells the story of the Wiley College debate team in 1935 Texas—a group of young African-American students who defied the odds to compete against some of the nation’s best universities, breaking barriers in a segregated society. The powerful script and its themes of racial injustice and the transformative power of education resonated deeply with Washington, and it became a project he felt compelled to bring to life.

While researching the history of black colleges for the film, Washington learned that institutions like Wiley College and Morehouse were founded during the decade following the 1863 Emancipation Proclamation. For millions of newly freed African-Americans, education was seen as the pathway out of poverty and oppression. Washington explained that many of the schools that sprang up during this period were created by individuals who, despite being denied opportunities to teach at prestigious universities like Harvard or Columbia, established their own educational institutions to provide empowerment to a new generation.

Melvin B. Tolson: A Role of Great Significance

In The Great Debaters, Washington plays the role of Melvin B. Tolson, the charismatic and passionate debate coach who guided the Wiley College team to national prominence. Tolson’s belief in his students was unshakable, and he was driven by the conviction that education and intellectual achievement could be a means of liberation for African-Americans in an era of deep racial segregation. Washington’s portrayal of Tolson reflects his admiration for the man’s work and his belief in the importance of stories like this one in understanding the African-American struggle for equality.

“I believe Melvin Tolson inspired his team to beat these other national teams in the ’30s,” Washington noted. He explained that while figures like W.E.B. Du Bois were not allowed to teach at prestigious institutions, they played an integral role in inspiring generations of students by setting up schools that provided access to education and a sense of purpose. Washington sees Tolson as a key figure in this movement, helping to prove that the power of education could transcend the barriers of segregation and open doors to a brighter future.

The Film’s Heart: The Journey of a Young Student

Though the film centers around Tolson’s efforts with the debate team, Washington emphasized that The Great Debaters is also about the personal journey of one student, a theme that resonated deeply with him. While the film explores the challenges of racism and the importance of education in the African-American community, it is also an inspiring story about perseverance and the courage to fight for one’s beliefs.

For Washington, the film was more than just a historical drama—it was a powerful reflection on the significance of African-American voices in shaping the future, both in education and beyond. His dual role as director and lead actor in the film was a challenge, as he noted the difficulty of balancing both responsibilities. “When I’m directing, I can’t focus the way I’m used to focusing as an actor because I don’t have the quiet time,” he explained. Despite the juggling act, Washington delivered a brilliant performance, drawing on the emotional resonance of the script and his connection to the film’s subject matter.

A Personal and Professional Challenge

Directing and acting in the same film is no easy feat, and Washington admitted that he had to adjust his usual routine in order to balance the demands of both roles. Normally, he takes time to center himself before a scene, using deep breaths to prepare. However, during the making of The Great Debaters, Washington joked that the “40 breaths” he typically takes before a scene were replaced by “40 breaths” as the only time he had for himself. Despite the lack of time for his usual preparation, his performance as Melvin Tolson remains one of his most heartfelt and powerful portrayals.

A Film That Stands the Test of Time

Since its release, The Great Debaters has been celebrated not only for its historical significance but also for the way it shines a light on the importance of education, determination, and breaking down racial barriers. Washington’s directing and acting work in the film has been praised for its emotional depth, and it stands as a testament to his ability to tell powerful stories that resonate on both a personal and universal level.

For Washington, The Great Debaters holds a special place in his heart, and the emotional connection he felt to the project is something he continues to reflect on. As both an actor and director, Washington’s work on this film remains one of his most impactful and important contributions to cinema.