The Blind Side

I'm not all that into sports movies but The Blind Side looked like it might be worth watching.  Based on the real life story of Baltimore Ravens player,  Michael Oher, The Blind Side garnered Sandra Bullock an Oscar for best actress.

The movie tells the story of Michael, Big Mike, Oher, played by Quinton Aaron whose own life story is one of rising from rags as well.  Oher was just one of twelve children that his cocaine addicted mother (Adriane Lenox) had by multiple men.  Living in the projects of Tennessee he had few people to turn to, nowhere he could call home, and just shy of nothing of an education.  His life took a major turn for the better when he was enrolled in a Christian school through a number of fortunate circumstances.  It was there that he became very involved in athletics and met the Tuohy family.  It was with  Leigh Anne (Bullock), Sean (Tim McGraw), Collins (Lily Collins), and SJ (Jae Head) that he found acceptance and encouragement.  Kathy Bates also appears as Michael's tutor.

I won't say much more about the plot since I don't want to confuse real life events with their theatrical representation.  From what I've heard, the movie does portray the characters and events with above average accuracy, but, as Hollywood is wont to do, things are still somewhat condensed, exaggerated, and romanticized.  This site gives an excellent rundown of real life vs. the movie, but be aware there are massive spoilers - as if the fact that this is a heartwarming sports movie based on true events isn't spoiler enough.

One of the things I hate is a movie that is heartwarming just because it can be.  This one works because you know that it is (mostly) true.  It's impossible not to care about a character who actually exists and who has real reasons for you to care about them.  Because of this and because of some great performances, I enjoyed this movie despite myself.  Sandra Bullock predictably gives a great performance and Tim Mcgraw proves that the line between singing and acting may be crossed successfully.  Jae Head's portrayal of Michael's younger white brother is - legendary isn't quite the right word for it, but let's just say that I'd like to see him do something in the future with Chloe Moretz.

It's enough of a sport's movie to appeal to that crowd, and enough of feel good drama to appeal to that group as well.  I don't really fall into either category, but liked it all the same.

**** (4/5 stars)