One of my all time favorites...

Rating: 10/10 (2 June 1999)

Hoosiers is not only the best sports-oriented movie ever, it is a great movie on its own merits. It really began the "underdog sports team overcomes the odds to become champions" genre that is recycled all too often. The genius of the film is simple: it's not about basketball, or sports, or coaching; it's about standing up for what you believe in. It's about personal convictions that cannot be sacrificed due to pressure from others. It's about redemption (both Coach Dale's and Shooter's) and forgiveness. These themes are universal and transcend the vehicle used to perpetuate them, that of a basketball team. The individual aspects of the film itself are equally impressive. The performances by Hackman and Hopper are second-to-none. Jerry Goldsmith's score is rousing, memorable, and catchy. The game scenes are shot and edited with masterful precision. And the players are all likable, memorable personalities (despite their short screen time). All in all, a great film that should be added to all personal libraries.