Review of Gridiron Gang (2006) by Jc E — 16 May 2011

I have serious mixed feelings on this movie. Yes, it's fairly inspirational, and the idea behind it is genuine. However, it never really strikes at the heart of many of these kid's problems. It seems to just present a live or die choice, not a make yourself better and inspire others to do the same theme.

If intentions are to be measured, they're good, but the execution of the film left some to be desired. For instance, if you ever get sick of black kids using racial epitaphs as terms of relative endearment, this movie isn't for you.

The n-word in particular is thrown about way more than it should be in a film intended to inspire kids to elevate themselves above such demeaning terms. I understand that this film is intended to give an accurate portrayal of life on the streets, but condoning defamatory slang doesn't fit the rest of the message the film is trying to portray.

One scene in particular seems very out of place by having a white boy use the epitaph, only to have a laugh out of the result. I could go on about the ills of the social message of the film, but it would be for naught.

Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson (You Again) does an acceptable job in the lead role, but dramatic work isn't really his thing. Some of the young actors have potential, and all of them make for great football on screen.

The film just really lacks a clear message, and a convincing narrative. All the money and inspiring speeches in the world don't always guarantee a change in a kid's behavior. Good intentions for a sports movie, but lackluster execution.