overlong and overdone

Rating: Null/10 (13 February 2002)

Oliver Stone's in-depth look at the controversial, behind-the-scenes world of professional football is an expectedly smashmouth, high-testosterone—but mostly frustrating story focusing on a handful of characters and their perspectives/contributions to the game. Pacino is a burned-out coach who's given it his all, Diaz a venal team owner, Quaid an aging quarterback in the twilight of his career, Foxx a youngster on the rise so full of himself that he can't comprehend his fundamental errors. The cast, full of talented actors and recognizable sports stars, does what they can, but the film depends on loud, ugly, in-your-face action on the field which while intense and flashy, quickly becomes an assault on the senses. It doesn't help that the film overstays its welcome. **