This is a phenomenal, all American family traditional film because of the classic setting. I enjoyed this movie because it reminds me of my family background and the support they give me in all my extra-curricular activities just like the subject in this film, Freddie Steinmark (Finn Wittrock). I totally relate to this movie starting with his challenges of wanting to pursue his dreams and reach for the stars. The director, Angelo Pizzo is highly cheered for drama, biography and love of sport that he reveals in this lavish, stunning, family-friendly movie.
This film tells the true story of a boy whose good sportsmanship leads his team to victory and for his heroic values and compassion and love of the sport of football. The family lives in a rural area. Both parents work and are active in giving to their son old-fashion values and beliefs. His character is grandiose, smart and loving. Most importantly, it shows his outstanding but subtle leadership qualities. His mother, Gloria Steinmark (Robin Tunney) is very supportive and his father, Fred Steinmark (Michael Reilly Burke) attends every football event. Even though he is consider small by athletic standards, through his talents and hard work, he is finally picked to join the University of Texas Longhorns football team by legendary coach Darrell Royal (Aaron Eckhart). Freddie and his teammates rise up the charts, giving the team a real chance to improve upon their past mediocre record. And, just when they're reveling in the success of the season, Freddie suffers an injury that leads to a shocking diagnosis and the biggest challenge he will ever face.
My favorite part of this film is when Freddie gets a scholarship to attend the University of Texas to play for the Longhorns. It is hilarious because, when the coach tells him he is accepted, he holds the coach's hand and does not let go. When he finally lets go, he is fumbling, trying to sit back down in his seat. I was so proud of him because he accomplished his goal to receive a scholarship.
I recommend this film for ages 10 to 18 and I give it 5 out of 5 Stars. I feel this way because this movie is fantastic, family-friendly and is something that families across the world can relate to with similar or different issues. I really appreciated this movie and I hope you will as well.
Be sure to check it out when it opens in theaters Friday, November 13, 2015
Reviewed by Tre'ana Hickson, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11
This faith-based film is truly inspirational. Based on a true story, it has its heart-breaking moments but, for the most part is uplifting and charming. Freddie Steinmark's legacy, both in Colorado and at the University of Texas is an active part of football for the Longhorns today. Kudos to director, Angelo Pizzo, known for writing both Hoosiers and Rudy, for his directorial debut. Football fans will love this film. Non fans will be critical of its predictability and clichéd moments. But, who cares, it's entertaining and has its own audience.
What Freddie Steinmark (Finn Wittrock) wants most in the world is to play football. Although he is deemed too small by the usual athletic standards, his father trains him hard. Freddie brings a fight to the game that ultimately gets him noticed--by none other than legendary University of Texas coach Darrell Royal (Aaron Eckhart). Awarded a scholarship and a chance to play for the Longhorns, Freddie sets off to Austin with his loving high school sweetheart, Linda (Sarah Bolger), determined to make the team. Alongside his old teammate Bobby Mitchell (Rett Terrell) and new pal James Street (Juston Street), Freddie is put through the paces of a grueling practice schedule. The boys' camaraderie off the field translates into solid playing on it, and they rise up the depth charts, giving the Longhorns a real chance to improve upon their mediocre record. But just when they're reveling in the success of the season, Freddie suffers an injury that leads to a shocking diagnosis and the biggest ...
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