Review of Friday Night Lights (2004) by Sam K — 17 Jan 2010

Something about a town more obsessed about football than life, religion, school, jobs, etc. doesn't really add up for me. While the atmosphere is good, the film fails to give any real insight or depth in regards to explaining the hows and whys of the the game and it's players.

The drama really doesn't hit you, but rather makes you feel sad for the town of Permia, Texas. For once, Billy Bob Thorton isn't a jerk in this movie. His role as the football coach is good, but nothing worthwhile or having the grace of magic as say Denzel Wasington from 'Remember the Titans'.

The film really has no direction or message. It doesn't add up, but gives you the feeling of a disappointing season of a football program built on winning. None of the actors who play the players on the team seem suited for their roles.

The football scenes are done nicely, but don't help the films moments off the field. In one scene, we're shown the parties of celebration of high school kids. And another is an abusive alcoholic father (played by the TERRIBLE acting Tim McGraw) beating his son over his son loving his girl friend rather than football.

Both scenes only look at the negativities of high school. Nothing can save this film. It isn't inspirational if that's what you're looking for in a sports film. Probably one of the worst sports films I've ever seen.