John’s Movie Musings

I got into a discussion with some friends about whether or not The Blind Side qualifies as a chick flick.  I argued that it’s not a football movie (though it’s based on the real story of an NFL player) because it’s really about the mom (Sandra Bullock).  Thus, chick flick.  My friends said no because it’s not a romantic comedy and that I’m an idiot.  I was outnumbered, but I think the consensus ended in a draw.

The Blind Side opens with the NFL play that ended Joe Theismann’s career (In YouTube quality, no less).  When the entire audience gasped, I realized not everyone had seen that before.  Unfortunately, the movie doesn’t fully explain why they open with that clip.  There’s a reason given, but it’s weak and explained poorly.  My guess is that it’s there to fool all the men into thinking they really weren’t at a chick flick.

When I watched the trailers, I was certain this was going to be one of those movies that make your eyes all sweaty.  But it’s not.  At all, really.  It’s heartwarming and kinda cool to see the life story (Hollywood style) of this football player.  The conflicts are kind of weak and forced, but that’s a minor quibble.  If you’re in the mood for a non-rom-com chick flick, give it a rental in a few months.

Grade: B