Review of Hoosiers (1986) by Gina W — 19 Jul 2009

Anyway, it's one of those movies without which we wouldn't have Coach Carter or Glory Road. It's one of the original against all odds basketball stories. Of course he's a new coach in town and he has a history. What's amazing is how much people don't like the new guy. It's 1950 so it's a little more understandable what a small town has at stake. Basketball is a way of life for small towns. When Hackman immediately shuts down their coaching advice and does things his own way, they turn their backs on him even more and try to vote him out of town. He has few supporters. One of them the town drunk who is father of one of the players. Begrudgingly a teacher starts to respect him too and when the time comes to call him out and tell the world his past, she changes her mind and asks they give him a chance. When star player, Jimmy (pronounce that like Forrest Gump says "Jenny") gives the coach his approval the town changes sides just so they can watch him play again.

This movie has great music. It also has a great plotline which many other movies have to try to live up to. It's all about proving oneself and every character has a chance to do it. The coach has to prove what he can do. Each player has a journey to get good or what grudges they have to get past or how short they are. The drunk father has to get on the path to recovery and has a moment to shine. I agree that it IS an inspirational movie. They also do great with all the period stuff. You're reminded of the time with every cheerleader completely covered up with sweaters and long skirts. Also the game clock that has hands on it instead of digital in the smaller towns is a great touch. Anyone can watch this movie. I give it an A. It's solid. And it's fun to make fun of the hick characters too.