Paul Robeson was a man of extraordinary versatility and achieved distinction as both a scholar and an athlete before he became an internationally-honored concert artist, and stage and screen actor, in the 1930s and 40s. His life took a darker turn in the late 40s when he repeatedly spoke out against racial injustice and defended the Soviet Union (at the height of the Cold War).

As a result, he was virtually blacklisted from the entertainment industry. His passport was revoked and his concerts were canceled. His dazzling career was shattered. Only towards the end of his life did he resume public appearances and his fame began to revive. He died in 1976.

James Earl Jones is outstanding, with only a few props and a bare stage, in portraying Robeson's life and truly heroic spirit, with a magnificent performance that matches the remarkable subject.