42, a new biopic about Jackie Robinson (the first African American to play Major League Baseball), is no exception to the age-old trend of heart-wrenching, historically-centered sports films. But, unlike most sports movies, it carries with it each of the essential components that make a sports film great.

Many great sports movies, for instance, are suspense movies, and great sports filmmakers are masters of suspense. And in the hands of screenwriter and director Brian Hegeland, 42 has plenty of suspense, despite its widely-known plot. Most great sports movies also conjure for viewers a sense of yearning for childhood, spent at stadiums or in front of the television supporting their favorite team. 42 certainly fulfills this requirement, with its romantic and nostalgic treatment of the classical baseball game experience.

Some great sports movies even document an important historical moment—they can be a vehicle for a testament to the strength of a heroic individual. 42 again is no exception, with its stark portrayal of the racial adversities faced by Jackie Robinson, a true hero who stood against the racism in the MLB at the time. Chadwick Boseman as Robinson is truly moving in Hegeland’s capable hands. Harrison Ford, with a mysterious aura and a wise, deep voice, is similarly loveable as Branch Rickey, the courageous MLB executive who made the daring choice to sign Robinson on account of his “superhuman” baseball skills and his courage.

From his cast to his screenplay, Helgeland has entirely outdone himself. 42 is powerful on all accounts—and no doubt a sports film to remember.