Jackie Robinson

Beware of Absolutes

   The new movie "42" has been billed and promoted as the first film celebrating the career of Jackie Robinson, who in 1947 broke the color barrier in Major League Baseball. Most recently, Frank Bruni of the New York Times wrote he was "shocked" that Hollywood had not dealt with his story before.

   In fact, it had, in 1950, with the release of "The Jackie Robinson Story," starring the Brooklyn Dodgers first baseman as himself and with Ruby Dee as his wife.
   Bruni was not the first to perpetuate the error. In the past few weeks, there have been several, on TV as well as in print, promoting the new movie as the only one ever to document Robinson's life and career.
   Caution: Beware of absolutes, especially in PR pitches. Be doubtful of claims such as first, only, never before, etc. Remember that old newsroom adage: "When in doubt, check it out."

   The Internet is a great resource for gathering and verifying information, but be sure the Web site you choose is reliable.