Denzel Washington and Forest Whitaker star in this drama inspired by a true story of Melvin B. Tolson, a debate coach from Wiley College during the 1930s. The film follows the professor's journey as he inspires a small group of students from his African-American college to form the school's first debate team. Directed by Denzel Washington and co-produced by Oprah Winfrey, the film is rated PG-13 for depiction of strong thematic material, including violence and disturbing images.