A documentary on an underdog football team who look to reverse their fortunes with coach Bill Courtney.
This is a valuable story from what one interview subject aptly refers to as the ‘have-nots’ of one of America’s richest sports.
It may be a film that feels rather than analyses, but Undefeated is a compelling, uplifting experience that can’t fail to move even the most US football-phobic.
Familiar territory, especially if you’ve seen Hoop Dreams and Friday Night Lights, but the intimate style offers its own rewards.
On paper, then, there are undeniable similarities to the likes of The Blindside, yet Undefeated is much more compelling than this comparison suggests.
Big guys, huge characters and lots at stake make for a powerful, engrossing film.
Perhaps best filed under guilty pleasures.
Undefeated works the whole macho-sentimental template so vigorously and well it’s practically a reflexive response to cry foul, but you’d have to find heroic reserves of cynicism not to care at all about the precarious fortunes of these unformed bruisers.
Can take its place proudly alongside the best in the genre.
A slim slice of bald reality stretched across the framework of a life-affirming sports movie.
You don't have to know or care much about the sport to be touched by this documentary on the travails of a Tennessee high-school (American) football team.
Even if you have no interest in American football this is a compelling and inspirational story that brings a tear to the eye.
It's an affecting and encouraging story.
Few Hollywood movies would make a drama about learning patience and to apologise. Above all, the undramatic way people do enormous kindnesses for others makes Undefeated feel like an honest and deserved win.
General release. Check local listings for show times.
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