Sucker Punched

Rating: 5/10 (18 January 2010)

After he inexplicably describes himself (in opening narration) as one of "thirty-three out-of-shape agents," toothy "sports agent" Tom Cruise (as Jerry Maguire) is fired from his job at "Sports Management International" (SMI), due to some unlucky breaks. And, possibly because he distributed some subversive literature about life's simple pleasures. Leaving the company of superior Jay Mohr (as Bob Sugar), Mr. Cruise invites SMI employees to follow him, and form a new group.
Alas, only pretty blonde Renee Zellweger (as Dorothy Boyd) accepts Cruise's offer; she has been admiring his handsomeness from afar. Unfortunately, Cruise persuades only one of his clients to join his new team - but, when it's football player Cuba Gooding Jr. (as Rod Tidwell), one is obviously enough. Mr. Gooding Jr. also serves as Cruise's best friend and advice dispenser. And, Ms. Zellweger comes with one of those cute and cuddly kids, enhanced by a prop dreamy pair of over-sized glasses.
With all these ingredients, how can Cruise lose?
Well, how?
Cameron Crowe's "Jerry Maguire" is a well-produced attraction. It increased Cruise's box office and critical success; and, it significantly advanced the careers of Gooding Jr. and Zellweger, who were heralded by many as "Supporting Actor" and "Newcomer" of the year. The film is full of catchphrases. Gooding Jr. teaches Cruise how to shout, "Show me the money!" Zellweger tells Cruise, "You had me at hello," and the man says, "You complete me." The film celebrates concussions - as long as you don't die from one.
***** Jerry Maguire (12/6/96) Cameron Crowe ~ Tom Cruise, Cuba Gooding Jr., Renee Zellweger, Jonathan Lipnicki