It was based on a true story, sorry if that made it predictable to some...

Rating: Null/10 (13 May 2001)

I absolutely loved this film. And why shouldn't I? I've read reviewers that said it was predictable. Well, it was based on a true story & sorry that for once, the true story had a happy ending (in some ways). This review does contain some info about the plot, so discontinue reading if you don't want to know about the story.
Case in point about the predictability, when Denzel Washington's character, coach Boone takes the boys on a 3am run at their training camp, it seems like just another outlandish way of disciplining them. Even his assistant coach, Yoast, played by Will Patton tells him, hey, these are boys, we're not in the Marines. But he has a purpose. When they finally stop, exhausted, they are standing at Gettysburg where you can see headstones in the background. He tells them then & there that they must come together, despite any differences in color. It is a moving and not overly sentimental speech that has effect for the boys and the viewer.
The friendships that the boys develop while perhaps presented in a predictable way, are still genuine and true to the story. The acting from everyone is first rate as well. Denzel, what is there to say about him? He is outstanding in every film. No doubt he will get the academy award for this film, since he should've gotten it for The Hurricane last year. Will Patton is equally terrific and his character just as inspiring and honorable as Washington's. In a scene that is filled with significance, Patton's character tells him that it's his pride that has lead to some racist people throwing a rock through his window, that happened to be on a night when Patton's white daughter was visiting Washington's daughter. It looks like Patton has the best "argument" until Washington's character points out, now she knows a little of what it feels like for my daughter ALL the time. This movie has so much heart and is about the best and worst in all of us. It was very well done & inspiring. Best of all, it's a true story.
Great for the entire family to watch, together.