Watch Harry Jerome: The Fastest Man On Earth

Harry Jerome: The Fastest Man On Earth is a biographical sports drama directed by Charles Officer. The film depicts the life of Harry Jerome, a Canadian track and field athlete who rose to fame in the 1960s. Harry Jerome, played by Stephan James, was born in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan in 1940. His family moved to Vancouver when he was young, where he eventually discovered his talent for running. With the help of his coach, Bill Bowerman (played by Jason Sudeikis), Harry became one of the fastest runners in the world, setting numerous records in the 100-meter dash and other events.

The film explores the challenges Harry faced as a Black athlete in a predominantly white sport, both in Canada and abroad. Harry encountered racism at every turn, from being denied entry to certain competitions to having his achievements belittled by the media. Despite this, he remained determined to succeed, using his platform to speak out against discrimination and fight for equal rights.

Throughout the film, Harry's personal life is also depicted. He marries his high school sweetheart, Sylvia (played by Shamier Anderson), and the two start a family together. However, Harry's rigorous training schedule and frequent travel put a strain on their relationship, leading to a series of ups and downs.

As a drama, the film strikes a balance between showcasing Harry's victories on the track and his struggles off of it. The audience is given a glimpse into his psyche through flashbacks and dream sequences, revealing the inner turmoil he experienced as a Black athlete in a world that was not always accepting of his talents.

The performances in the film are excellent, particularly Stephan James as Harry Jerome. He brings a great deal of heart and nuance to the role, making the character feel fully realized and relatable. Jason Sudeikis is also fantastic as Bill Bowerman, Harry's coach and mentor. The chemistry between the two actors is palpable, and their scenes together are some of the film's most memorable.

In terms of production value, the film looks and sounds great. The period details are spot-on, with costumes and set design that transport the audience back to the 1960s. The soundtrack, which features a mix of classic soul and jazz music, complements the film perfectly.

Overall, Harry Jerome: The Fastest Man On Earth is a must-see for fans of sports dramas and biopics. It tells an inspiring and often overlooked story of a true Canadian hero, and shines a light on the ongoing struggle for racial justice and equality. The film is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination, and is sure to leave audiences feeling inspired and uplifted.

Harry Jerome: The Fastest Man On Earth is a 2011 documentary with a runtime of 10 minutes.