Just for Fun: What Debate Movie Should You Add to Your Watchlist?
We know you hate scrolling through the same streaming apps endlessly searching for something to watch! Let us help you decide which debate-themed movie you should check out. Who knows – maybe our suggestion could even make your top 4!
Plus, for all of you purists who can’t stand Hollywood’s version of debate, we’ve got a non-fiction alternative to complement each fiction film recommendation!
1) What aspect of debate is the biggest challenge for you?
a) getting access to resources
b) working together with a partner
c) building your self-confidence
d) speaking in front of an audience
2) A book catches your eye at the bookstore. It’s most likely to be…
a) a non-fiction book that dramatically retells a historical event
b) the sweet new romance everyone’s talking about
c) an under-the-radar, heartfelt contemporary fiction novel
d) a darkly funny, tell-all memoir written by a comedian
3) Something inspired you to post about the TV show you just watched. It’s most likely because…
a) It gave you a moment of inspiration or insight into your life
b) You totally “ship” a certain couple and want to discuss it with other fans
c) You don’t see anyone else talking about it and you want more people to see it
d) You love recognizing an actor in a role before they were famous
4) You were chosen to give a speech to your graduating class. You’re most likely to focus on…
a) mobilizing the audience to fight against injustice
b) encouraging your classmates to break free of expectations
c) recognizing the mentors who have made a difference in your life
d) using humor to help the audience hear your message
5) Which coffee shop sounds most appealing to you?
a) a mission-oriented enterprise where profits support a cause
b) an ideal first-date spot with delicious sweet treats
c) a cozy, quiet coffee shop with a library of books
d) a social hub with live music and open mic nights
6) Which would you want to listen to before a tournament?
a) A powerful anthem by an artist you admire
b) Upbeat, danceable songs to pump me up
c) Your perfectly curated Spotify playlist of deep cuts
d) A podcast or audiobook to take my mind off my nerves
7) What extracurricular activity, besides debate, appeals to you most?
a) Student government: I like having influence and sharing my voice.
b) A solo sport like tennis: I like to compete and beat my personal best!
c) Yearbook: I like being creative and preserving memories for the future.
d) Tech crew: I like being part of something without being in the spotlight.
Answer Key
Now, total up your multiple choice answers to receive your film recommendations!
Mostly A’s: The Great Debaters
Fiction: Your answers make us think you enjoy an inspiring historical narrative. The Great Debaters (2007), which is based on the true story of Melvin B. Tolson and the Wiley College debate team, is a star-studded choice grounded by skilled dramatic performances. Rated PG-13. Stream it for free on Tubi, Roku, and Freevee.
Non-fiction: Get the true facts behind the film. The Real Great Debaters of Wiley College (2008) covers the events that inspired this instant classic. The documentary is currently available to stream for free via Tubi!
Mostly B’s: Candy Jar
Fiction: Your answers make us think you have a sweet tooth! Candy Jar (2018) is a lighthearted romantic comedy praised as “fleet, sweet and often genuinely funny” by Glenn Kenny of the New York Times. In this film, dueling debate team co-presidents fight for admission into their dream universities, the state title… and their feelings for each other. Rated PG-13. Stream it on Netflix.
Non-Fiction: Rivalries and relationships brew in Candy Jar! If you enjoyed the debate partner dynamic between Lona and Bennet, you may enjoy the documentary Figures of Speech (2015), which chronicles four Duo Intepretation teams on their road to Nationals. Now streaming via Peacock.
Mostly C’s: A Sort of Homecoming
Fiction: Your answers make us think you’d enjoy a reflective, sensitive indie film like A Sort of Homecoming. The film chronicles one summer at debate camp where Amy, a neglected teenage girl, finds herself. 1980s vibes abound in Disney star Laura Marano’s first indie role. The film is not rated and available for streaming on Amazon Prime and Tubi.
Non-Fiction: A Sort of Homecoming illuminates the inequities students often face in debate. If you rooted for Amy, you’ll enjoy Girl Talk (2022), a documentary following five girls as they fight to find their voices. It’s available for streaming via Amazon Prime and PBS.
Mostly D’s: Rocket Science
Fiction: Your answers make us think you’d like the sense of humor and underdog vibes of Rocket Science (2007). Reece Thompson and Anna Kendrick star in this film about Hal Hefner, a shy student with a stutter who joins his high school debate team. Jeffrey Blitz, screenwriter for The Office and Comedy Central’s Review, based the film on his own youth. Rated R. Available to stream on Max.
Non-Fiction: Rocket Science is an accessible entry into the world of policy debate. Check out the similarly sharp, funny documentary Resolved (2007), which delves further into issues in the debate community. Currently streaming on AMC+.
