Must see for football or Pacino fans

Rating: 7/10 (28 December 1999)

Although it won't rank as one of my all time favorite movies, this kept my attention the entire 3 (?) hours it ran. There was nothing especially unique about the plot (cliches about sacrifice, teamwork and instant celebrity) but the direction was powerful. Although I love football, I have never been in a huddle (could be those matching chromosomes of mine) and this movie took me right into the grit of it.
I would have never in a million years thought of Al Pacino as a football coach (too all-american?) despite the fact that I am a huge fan. But, he played it perfectly, from the intense, firebreather on the sidelines to the tired and aging legend who sacrificed his life and family to the god of football.
This movie rides on Stone's direction and Pacino's acting, and it is more than enough.
Be sure to sit long enough into the credits to see the press conference...