Watch Passing Glory

"Passing Glory" is a historical sports drama based on the true story of a high school basketball team in the segregated South during the civil rights movement. The film is set in New Orleans in the 1960s and follows the story of St. Augustine High School and its legendary coach, Father Joseph Verbis Lafleur, as they attempt to integrate their school and win a state championship.

The film begins with Father Lafleur, played by Andre Braugher, recruiting new players for his team, including new transfer student Arthur Ashe (Sean Squire). Ashe is a talented athlete, but he quickly learns the harsh realities of playing basketball in a segregated South, where he is subjected to racial slurs and discrimination from opposing players, coaches, and fans. Despite the obstacles, Father Lafleur and his team are determined to succeed, and they begin to win game after game.

However, as St. Augustine starts to progress towards the state championship, they begin to face more serious challenges. The school's principal (Rip Torn) is fiercely opposed to integration, and he does everything he can to sabotage Father Lafleur's efforts, including threatening to dismiss the coach and disband the team.

As tensions escalate both on and off the court, the players must learn to overcome their differences and work together as a team. They are united by a common goal - to prove that they are just as good as any white team and deserving of recognition and respect.

The film's climax comes in the form of a dramatic showdown between St. Augustine and Jesuit High School for the state championship. The game is intense and hard-fought, with both teams refusing to back down. In the end, it is St. Augustine who emerges victorious, not only winning the championship but also earning the respect of their opponents and the wider community.

"Passing Glory" is a powerful and moving film that highlights the struggles and triumphs of the civil rights movement. It showcases the bravery and determination of those who fought for equality and justice, both on and off the basketball court. The performances by the cast are outstanding, particularly Braugher as Father Lafleur, whose quiet dignity and unwavering commitment to his players is truly inspirational.

Overall, "Passing Glory" is a must-watch film for anyone interested in sports, civil rights, or just great storytelling. It provides a poignant and unforgettable look at a pivotal moment in American history and the people who helped to shape it.

Passing Glory is a 1999 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 34 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.