A deservedly saintly presentation of the Jackie Robinson story occasionally wields narrative as a blunt instrument, just to make sure no one misses Robinson's struggles and dignity. A fine cast and a laid back style that feels as retro as the period setting help craft a film that's a likable history lesson.

Turning one of our most revered and dignified presidents into an action hero in service of a schlocky horror concept sounds like sacrilege. It's startling how much admiration the filmmakers seem to have for the great man, even as they have him slashing armies of the undead with a silver-coated ax.

The first bright spot is Alan Tudyk, the American puts on an arguable British accent and damn near steals the picture with outrageous physical comedy that finally get this farce of a farce off the ground.