I want to stipulate up front that I am not qualified to review films.

But having watched “42,” the film about the Jackie Robinson’s entry into Major League Baseball, I do intend to declare that the movie tells a compelling story in a tasteful way.

I was a bit apprehensive, believing that the story would be too Hollywoodized for my taste. I don’t believe that’s the case.

Robinson broke into the big leagues in 1947, becoming the first African-American ballplayer to suit up in an all-white sporting enterprise. He earned his spurs, becoming the National League’s Rookie of the Year with the Brooklyn Dodgers; Robinson was the NL’s Most Valuable Player in 1949.

The film tells the story of the intense hatred Robinson felt from fans and fellow players – opposing players and teammates. It also tells the story of strength, of character, of pride and of determination.

Chadwick Boseman portrays Jackie Robinson and bears even a vague resemblance to the late baseball icon. Harrison Ford portrays Branch Rickey, the Dodgers’ executive who opened the door for Robinson’s entry into the big leagues. 

I don’t want to single out elements of the film. As I said, I’m not a film critic.

But the film’s telling of an important American story – even with its ear-splitting use of the “n-word” – is worth seeing.