Review of This Sporting Life (1963) by Jarett B — 06 Feb 2011

DId Brando just get a British accent?? Seriously, at times you'd swear that Harris is Brando, especially when he loses his cool--which is pretty much 75% of the film (not a bad thing by far!). It very much reminded me of 'Streetcar' with rugby; there is a Tennessee Williams feel to the relationship between Harris and Mrs.

Hammond, ranging from sweet encounters to brutal, physical situations. Harris is very much a Raging Bull both on and off the field. I feel that a lot of Harris' screen power/presence really is due to Anderson's framing and the black and white cinematography; as there are times when a simple cut or change of angle turns Harris from man to menace.

Complaints?? Well, it's certainly not my favorite sports film, as Ranging Bull will never be dethroned; so, after saying that, it's a good watch--seeming a little drawn out at times--with moments such as the 'hospital room' scene that push the overall product far, far above average.

Actually, I think the film gets much stronger in the last half-hour (almost irresistible), warranting a define second viewing.