The Freedom Riders Poster
Documentary
History

The Freedom Riders (2010) Review in 2025

7.5/10
Flop

The Freedom Riders is a documentary film that tells the story of the Freedom Riders, a group of civil rights activists who traveled through the South in 1961 to test the enforcement of desegregation laws on public transportation.

1 hour 30 minutes
English (Dubbed: None)
Age group: 16-40, Interests: History, Civil Rights
Budget: 500 thousand USD
Gross: 100 thousand USD

Family-Friendly Rating

Is this movie suitable for family viewing?

This movie is not suitable for young children due to its mature themes and historical content.

CineReview Recommendation

This movie is worth watching for its historical significance and educational value, but may not be the most engaging or entertaining film for some viewers.

Spoiler Alert!

Hover to reveal spoiler summary

The film features interviews with the Freedom Riders, including Diane Nash and James Farmer, who share their personal experiences and reflections on the events of 1961. The documentary also includes archival footage and photographs to provide context and visual representation of the events.

Review Details

story8.00/10

The story is engaging and informative, providing a comprehensive overview of the Freedom Riders' journey and the historical context of the time.

acting7.00/10

The acting is solid, with the Freedom Riders delivering authentic and heartfelt performances.

characters7.00/10

The characters are well-represented, with the Freedom Riders sharing their personal experiences and reflections on the events of 1961.

direction8.00/10

The direction is strong, with Stanley Nelson Jr. effectively weaving together interviews, archival footage, and photographs to create a compelling narrative.

cinematography6.00/10

The cinematography is adequate, but not particularly noteworthy, with some scenes feeling a bit static and lacking in visual flair.

Pros and Cons

Pros

The Freedom Riders is a powerful and informative documentary that provides a comprehensive overview of the Freedom Riders' journey and the historical context of the time.

Cons

The cinematography is a bit lacking, and some scenes feel a bit static and lacking in visual flair.

Notable Quotes

"The Freedom Riders were a catalyst for change, and their actions paved the way for the Civil Rights Movement."
"We were not just riding buses, we were challenging the status quo."

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