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The highly anticipated biography of legendary baseball player Jackie Robinson is set to hit theaters this month. The film, 42, was written by award-winning director-producer Brian Helgeland, known for his writing for films such as Man on Fire, Robin Hood, and L.A. Confidential among others.

The film will detail the life of the athlete on his journey to become the first African-American major league baseball player. It will also detail his relationship with Branch Rickey played by Harrison Ford, who served a mentor-like role to Robinson.

First Lady Michelle Obama recently held a workshop, according to the White House’s official blog, with high school and college students to explain the important messages presented in the film.

President Barack Obama and First lady Michelle Obama got a chance to see the film and described it as being “powerful” and that it left them “visibly, physically moved by the experience of the movie.” The First Lady was joined at the workshop by Rachel Robinson, widow of Jackie, and encouraged the students to use her as a “guide”.  She said the following:

“Jackie and Rachel Robinson weren’t destined for greatness — they prepared themselves for greatness; which meant that they could make a difference outside of baseball, as well. That is the only thing that is important for you to understand. You can be great in your profession, you can earn a lot of money, you can be famous, but the question is: ‘What are you doing for others?’”

Click here for more transcripts from the event. The movie is set to be released April 12th.

 

—Alexis Holliday