Synopsis: An upper-class suburban white family takes in a homeless teen who later becomes a talented football player.
Release Date: November 20, 2009 MPAA Rating: PG-13
Genre(s): Drama, Comedy
Film Review
Production
Movies are all about suspending our belief and withdrawing into worlds where the unbelievable becomes real, even if for a mere 120 minutes or so. This film is a rarity as you find yourself doing just that but then realizing along the way this is a true story. As unbelievable as it may seem. With good judgement the filmmakers made the choice to not dwell on the negative. To not hash out all of the terrible things that happened to Michael Oher before he met the Touhy family. It gives you just enough to work with to understand how a chance encounter on a rainy evening changed a boy’s life in ways unimaginable. Never one to live in self pity or doubt Michael shines as a survivor; and the Touhy family, led by a sassy ball busting performance by Sandra Bullock as matriarch Leigh Anne, come across as loving people who opened their home to a stranger only to end up bettering his life and theirs as well. There is a genuine sense of love that comes across as you watch and a surprisingly jovial tone to most of the film. It is full of smart wit and comedic jaunts when least expected. It is a movie that will touch your heart while showing the power one has inside of themselves to overcome anything and achieve greatness.
Directing
If I may dare use a football metaphor, as is fitting for this film, the Director John Lee Hancock would be considered a superb coach. Leading all of his players, and the team as a whole, to victory. For that is what he delivers with this movie, a perfect game worthy of the championship. He has told an incredibly touching story without layering on the heavy doses of melodrama one might expect walking through the door. There is instead a gentle balance between drama and comedy, pain and happiness, overcoming the past and having hope for the future. It is pitch perfect throughout and incredibly enjoyable to watch. Hancock held it all together, proving as the minutes roll by and the story unfolds that he was in the game to win it.
Cast and Crew
- Director(s): John Lee HancockGil Netter
- Producer(s): John Lee HancockSandra Bullock (Leigh Anne Touhy)
- Screenwriter(s): Kathy Bates (Miss Sue)Kim Dickens (Mrs. Boswell)Tim McGraw (Sean Tuohy)
- Story: Quinton Aaron (Michael Oher)
- Cast: Mark LivolsiAlar KiviloMichael Corenblith
- Editor(s):
- Cinematographer: Carter Burwell
- Production Designer(s):
- Costume Designer:
- Casting Director(s):
- Music Score:
- Music Performed By:
- Country Of Origin: USA