THE ROOKIE (Theatrical Release USA 2002)

 Ben Meyers’ Rating: 3.9|5.0 Starsììì 

The Rookie—not a high quality story—becomes more than a worthy watch because of its ability to give that ‘feel-good’ emotion all during the movie and allows an audience to keep that feeling long after watching. Dennis Quaid engages the audience so that one cares about his story and wishes for the success of the character he plays. Good writing makes the film. Baseball fans will enjoy this watch but know that even wider audiences will also enjoy it. Good work for all involved in making the movie. It’s a straight-forward story. It earns its place in the family home video library. 

Film Poster Courtesy of Google Images 

Storyline 

A pitcher/coach gets a second chance to play in major league baseball. 

Additional Thanks 

Thank you to Director John Lee Hancock for directing efforts. Thank you to Producers Mark Ciardi, Gordon Gray, and Mark Johnson for making the film possible. Cast includes: Dennis Quaid, Rachel Griffiths, Jay Hernandez, Brian Cox, and Angus T. Jones. 

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe? 

Yes. Terrific feel-good sports story with a good script. The movie suits a wide range audience.

 Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers

THE BLIND SIDE (Theatrical Release USA 2009)

Ben Meyers’ rating: 4.1|5.0 Starsìììì

The Blind Side—a classic family film worth watching a second time. Superb casting includes Sandra Bullock, Quinton Aaron, Tim McGraw, Jae Head, and Lily Collins. This is an upbeat story for the whole family. One of the best entertainment movies for 2009.

Film Poster Courtesy of Wikipedia

Storyline

Michael Oher (Quinton Aaron) runs away from foster homes to consistently fend for himself. He finally meets a family who helps him find a life.

Additional Thanks

Thank you to Director John Lee Hancock for directing efforts. Thank you to Executive Producers Timothy M. Bourne, Molly Smith, and Erwin Stoff for making the film possible. Additional characters/cast include: Leigh Anne Tuohy (Sandra Bullock), Sean Tuohy (Tim McGraw), Michael Oher (Quinton Aaron), S.J. Touhy (Jae Head), Collings Tuohy (Lily Collins), Coach Cotton (Ray McKinnon), Mrs. Boswell (Kim Dickens), Denise Oher (Adriane Lenox), and Miss Sue (Kathy Bates).

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?

Yes. Director John Lee Hancock hit the jackpot with his interpretation of Michael Lewis’ novel, The Blind Side: Evolution of a Game. Heart, soul, and great acting place this family movie in a category of its own.

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers