I'm sure this is a pseudo-realistic look into how our cult-like worship of our favorite schools drives some ethically questionable behind the scenes maneuvers (James Caan is so close to showing he has a conscience), but that just makes it more disappointing given the results. We like to believe that the good guys who do it right eventually pull through and outlast the scandal ridden.
More interesting than most fictional football movies, but the ending was so hard to support/cheer on. I enjoyed watching the scandals unfold, but by the end of it, I don't feel sympathy for any of them and wish they would get what they deserve instead of being rewarded. What's the theme that makes it a film to watch? That life's not fair? That we need to stop this sport in it's tracks? Even the QB who you can sort of defend in the bar fight (and even the DWI in the context of 30-40 years ago, especially given his roots) doesn't seem to have any true leadership that makes him an admirable figure, and he doesn't learn anything. Should've lost the fumble on the final drive. The disappointment of not going bowling and a coach going three years and out after losing control of his program would be a more compelling finish and probably more realistic to the sadness of careers ending as most of them do - losing and churning through coaches.
More interesting than most fictional football movies, but the ending was so hard to support/cheer on. I enjoyed watching the scandals unfold, but by the end of it, I don't feel sympathy for any of them and wish they would get what they deserve instead of being rewarded. What's the theme that makes it a film to watch? That life's not fair? That we need to stop this sport in it's tracks? Even the QB who you can sort of defend in the bar fight (and even the DWI in the context of 30-40 years ago, especially given his roots) doesn't seem to have any true leadership that makes him an admirable figure, and he doesn't learn anything. Should've lost the fumble on the final drive. The disappointment of not going bowling and a coach going three years and out after losing control of his program would be a more compelling finish and probably more realistic to the sadness of careers ending as most of them do - losing and churning through coaches.