American socio-drama that literally "tackles" issues of race, homelessness, class and...Football.
From director John Lee Hancock, comes a film inspired by a true story about a homeless, abandoned black youth, who is taken in by an affluent white family, and his talent for American Football. Michael Oher (Quinton Aaron) is a lonely child whose life has been tough. Sleeping on couches, moving from foster families, a mother addicted to crack, his world is the forgotten society of America. When he finds himself enrolled at a private Christian high school, he remains homeless, teachers unwilling to help him, and having to scrape his way through. Until a chance encounter with a tenacious mum and her white collar family lands Michael a spot on their couch, and a place in their life.
Leigh Anne Tuohy (Sandra Bullock) is the mother of the Tuohy family, and she is an organised, determined designer for celebrities, and her no-fuss approach to life extends to her home. After taking Michael into her home, Leigh Anne goes in search of the boy's unknown past, and learns more than she bargained for. After changing Michael's life, the Tuohy family all experience a similar change, and their perceptions of race and class alter permanently. The collision of cultures makes for a dramatic tale, the prejudices and conflicts are a constant source for great movies. In addition to Michael's disruption to the white suburbs, he also catches the attention of the authorities, who believe that the Tuohy family are "boosting" him (bribing him in order to take his athletic abilities to a college of their choosing).
A heartwarming film that relies heavily on issues rather than the excitement of American football. The clash of cultures is a popular element to movies, however, The Blind Side is a worthy addition, one that has vivid, engaging characters, and excellent story development. Indeed, the structure of the film becomes layered as it goes on, adding many different aspects which are compelling. Bullock's performance is inspiring, worthy of her accolades, and many of the other supporting parts are well performed, making for a high class film.
Viewers should not fear a large amount of football, it is far more focused on the drama of the characters. The only football which is shown is entertaining and adds a tempo that is important to drive the movie on. Music is well chosen, creating excellent atmospheres along the way.
If this film does not bring a tear to your eye, you are probably dead inside.
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