“The Senior” is most likely to succeed among true-story audiences, football-movie fans and faith-based film aficionados alike.
‘The Senior’ (IMDb)
I cried twice. And I’m not ashamed to admit it.
There are few surprises along the way, but the smart dialogue and terrific character development make this one of the most enjoyable films of the year. Add to that a stellar cast with Michael Chiklis at its core, and you’ve got a crowd-leaser that might have you cheering.
First, we meet Mike Flynt, the real-life character who, at the age of 59, found redemption in a second chance when he went back to college to play football. In his brief appearance, he welcomes that audience to his story.
And then we’re introduced to Chiklis (“The Shield”) as Flynt, who years before was expelled from college because he was involved in so many fights. We see flashbacks of Flynt as a boy as his father encourages him to fight – to stay tough, and never back off.
Reluctantly, after encouragement from his wife (Mary Stuart Masterson,) Flynt goes to a reunion of his college football team. Even after decades, Flynt is embarrassed that he let his temper get the best of him so many times.
He considers what he missed because he didn’t play during what could have been his last year in college, and returns to the university in Texas, where he meets with the coach (Rob Corddry.)
Despite the misgivings of nearly everyone around him, Flynt goes back to school and the team. And he begins to train with young men who astonished at his presence – players who insist on calling him “Mister.” But they soon grow to like the determined “new” player. There’s a great scene locker-room scene that involves the classic Spinners song “Rubberband Man” that is so joyful I’d watch it again.
The faith-based elements are brief. They’re never preachy – they are just part of Flynt’s journey to redemption.
You don’t need to be surprised to be touched by likeable characters, smart dialogue and real-life challenges in a sports underdog story that’s all the better because it’s true. It reminds me a lot of “Rudy” and Seabiscuit,” both terrific feel-good real-life stories.
The last few frames of this film really got to me. That image – I refuse to tell you what it is – transitions into a mini-documentary with photos and brief videos of the real Flynt, Chiklis, and other characters in the film.
Let this beautiful film tackle your heart.
4 stars
Running time: One hour and 39 minutes.
Rated: PG for brief violence and coarse language.
In theaters.
Watch the trailer here.
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