1. alcoholism is a destructive force
2. supportive friends and family are critical in recovery
3. there isn’t a cure for addiction--it’s a daily struggle
4. grief is debilitating and most people need help to work through it
But the message that hit home with me was the importance of sports and competition in the lives of boys and men. It’s such a motivating force in our development and well-being as adults. It brings us together. It gives us a team to play with or root for. It prevents us from being socially and/or physically lazy. It allows us to focus our lives around a goal that reaps benefits in other areas of our lives.
I’m not for a second saying that women can’t enjoy sports. What I’m saying is it plays a much more vital role in the lives of men than it generally does for women. Within the context of this film, the responsibility of coaching and influencing young minds helps to motivate Ben’s character to be better himself. Athletes want to please their coach, and coaches don’t want to let down their team. Everybody wins.
The scenes in which Ben drinks himself into a stupor are hard to watch. It’s Leaving Las Vegas level depressing. The time spent on the basketball court is magic. That’s where this movie shines. Shout-out to my favorite character, the algebra teacher turned assistant coach. Way to make an impression unknown actor!
Rating: C+
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