Written by Jordan Bailey
Over Thanksgiving break, I not only participated in the national holiday that calls for the consumption of a large bird, accompanied with mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie. I also spent a lot of time with my family, which involves football and movie theaters. Our annual traditions usually demand at least one feature film be viewed, and our selection this year was “The Blind Side.”
The movie boasts stars Sandra Bullock, Tim McGraw and Kathy Bates, but its true draw is the moving storyline based on a true story. Newcomer Quinton Aaron stars as Michael Oher, a teenager whose life has left him without a home or family he can rely on. Oher is taken into the home of Leigh Anne and Sean Tuohy, played by Bullock and McGraw respectively, after Leigh Anne discovers him wandering alone on a cold night without warm clothes and a real destination.
The subsequent relationship that develops between the Tuohy family and Oher rings of reality as they adapt to each other gradually and develop a mutual trust. One of the key points of the story depends on the immense size of Oher and his spot on the high school football team. With the help of Leigh Ann’s admonition to view the team as his family and protect them, Michael becomes a brilliant defensive football player. His aptitude to protect and love drives his athletic success.
Bullock’s portrayal of Leigh Anne Tuohy is entertaining and realistic as she struggles to be a genuine person and use her blessings wisely. Her sharp replies and witty banter coincide naturally with the charity and affection she shows for her children and Michael. Leigh Anne Tuohy, as played by Bullock, is not a sugar-coated Southern housewife. She has spunk, and the charm of the character lies in the marriage of that spunk and her good heart.
Quinton Aaron plays Michael Oher with an understated style of acting that works beautifully. He contributes to a moving story by not overacting or milking the situation, and his character choices shine as authentic and believable. He does not portray a stereotypical football player from a bad background with trouble in school; he is a true character, loyal to the story.
McGraw made his name as a singer, and I encourage artists to not mix genres, but his supporting role in the film works. The Tuohy children are well portrayed by Lily Collins and Jae Head, and Kathy Bates shines, as usual, as the tutor hired to pull Michael’s grades up. The cast and plot work well to tell a powerful story about acceptance and overcoming challenges with a spirit of tenacity.
I admit that I had only minor interest in seeing yet another sports film about the triumph of a downtrodden athlete. I went to the theater to spend time with my family, but I left having seen a good movie. Although it will not be added to my short list of brilliant classic films, “The Blind Side” is worth a trip to the theater and the price of a ticket.
