Cast members Denzel Whitaker (R), Jurnee Smollett (2nd R), Nate Parker (2nd L) pose with director Denzel Washington at the after-party for the premiere of "The Great Debaters" in Hollywood, California December 11, 2007. The movie is based on the true story of Melvin B. Tolson, a professor, and opens in the U.S. on December 25. REUTERS/Mario Anzuoni (UNITED STATES)