Review of Friday Night Lights (2004) by Daniel P — 27 Sep 2010

I had been told this was a great movie, and I can't say that I disagree. Formulaic, but perfectly so in its way. It gets a little emo in the end, but that's not to take away from its great moments.

Billy Bob Thornton holds his own with a strong ensemble cast of relative unknowns in the true story of Permian High's march to the Texas State Championship Game. I think what separates this from many sports movies is that you know just how much rides on the football season, and why each player there has to succeed.

Very Last Picture Show, in a way - the desolation of the small Texas town and the desperate search for that ticket out. A very good film.