Invincible (B- or 2.5/4 stars)
Nothing says 'inspirational' like a good Disney football biodrama. 'Invincible', directed by Ericson Core, tells the story of Vince Papale (Mark Wahlberg), a Philadelphia Eagles legend from the 1970's. Without knowing anything about this man, Wahlberg does a decent job at making me care about his personal story, struggles, lack of confidence, & ultimate success. The first half of the film (accented in sepia tones to create a warm 70's vibe) is understated, emotional, & steady. But the second half becomes rather monotonous and bland (falling in the trap of some other Disney 'inspirational' sports movies). The end product is fine. But while I appreciate the slow, inward nature of the first half, the second half really needed some oomph.
Vince's wife has left him, and he is uninspired to study for the bar exam. In fact, he is simply uninspired, in general. What brings him joy? Having some brewskies at the local bar and playing some football with his 30-something pals. After some friends egg him on, Vince musters up enough confidence to try out for his favorite NFL team, the Eagles. Their last season had been atrocious and, new coach Dick Vermeil (Greg Kinnear) sets-up 'open' tryouts (unheard of) to try and find a new 'star'. This ignites public interest, but also attempts to find someone with talent and Philadelphia 'heart'.
Downtrodden, 30 yrs. old, never played College ball ... didn't matter. Vince is slowly able to hide his weaknesses and showcase his strength of character & strength in football. It's an intimate story, and an inspirational one. But I've seen it all before. The movie starts out so strong, but fades over time. And even though the final 10 minutes is nice, it could have been even more climactic; more exalting! I'm not even a huge football fan and I wanted to see more football!
What else is lacking, you ask? More of the relationship between him and sweetheart, Janet Cantrell (Elizabeth Banks); she eventually becomes his wife. There are some tender, sweet scenes between the two of them, but then that storyline disappears. Also, Vince is anything but initially accepted by his teammates (who'd blame them?). But then the movie ends when the result of a game goes their way because of Vince; a huge celebration breaks-out. Where was the budding camaraderie? The process of accepting Vince onto the team? There is very little shown.
You know what? This is a Disney sports movie. It was never going to be Earth-shattering. I accept this. And I repeat: I really did enjoy this movie; it's harmless. The cast is solid. The cinematography is a high-point. And who doesn't like something uplifting for a change? Vince Papale defied the odds, made the team, & gave his fans everything that they could have ever dreamed of. His dreams came true. I recommend this film to anyone who likes football, likes Mark Wahlberg, and doesn't want their brain to hurt when watching a movie. Just don't expect to be enthralled.
Vince's wife has left him, and he is uninspired to study for the bar exam. In fact, he is simply uninspired, in general. What brings him joy? Having some brewskies at the local bar and playing some football with his 30-something pals. After some friends egg him on, Vince musters up enough confidence to try out for his favorite NFL team, the Eagles. Their last season had been atrocious and, new coach Dick Vermeil (Greg Kinnear) sets-up 'open' tryouts (unheard of) to try and find a new 'star'. This ignites public interest, but also attempts to find someone with talent and Philadelphia 'heart'.
Downtrodden, 30 yrs. old, never played College ball ... didn't matter. Vince is slowly able to hide his weaknesses and showcase his strength of character & strength in football. It's an intimate story, and an inspirational one. But I've seen it all before. The movie starts out so strong, but fades over time. And even though the final 10 minutes is nice, it could have been even more climactic; more exalting! I'm not even a huge football fan and I wanted to see more football!
What else is lacking, you ask? More of the relationship between him and sweetheart, Janet Cantrell (Elizabeth Banks); she eventually becomes his wife. There are some tender, sweet scenes between the two of them, but then that storyline disappears. Also, Vince is anything but initially accepted by his teammates (who'd blame them?). But then the movie ends when the result of a game goes their way because of Vince; a huge celebration breaks-out. Where was the budding camaraderie? The process of accepting Vince onto the team? There is very little shown.
You know what? This is a Disney sports movie. It was never going to be Earth-shattering. I accept this. And I repeat: I really did enjoy this movie; it's harmless. The cast is solid. The cinematography is a high-point. And who doesn't like something uplifting for a change? Vince Papale defied the odds, made the team, & gave his fans everything that they could have ever dreamed of. His dreams came true. I recommend this film to anyone who likes football, likes Mark Wahlberg, and doesn't want their brain to hurt when watching a movie. Just don't expect to be enthralled.