Inspirational in a way that only a sports movie can be.

Rating: 10/10 (28 May 2001)

If you have ever struggled to achieve an impossible goal, dreamed of the almost unattainable, and then attained it, this is your movie. Sports movies are easy, because there's the built in conflict and triumph of athletic competition. But sometimes a film rises above the genre. Based on a true story, Rudy is among the best of such films, and completes the holy trinity of sports movies; Baseball - The Natural, Basketball - Hooisers, and Football - Rudy. (If you don't have them go immediately to your local video store and buy them. I'll wait here till you get back.)
Sean Astin's determination and sincerity are moving. He's five feet nothing, but he actually makes the team for Notre Dame football, in a time when that meant something. Rising through staggering odds, and crushing setbacks, including the death of his best friend, working in a steel mill, a detour to junior college, and the selective admissions process at Notre Dame, he dreams the impossible dream, and then lives it.
There are brilliant supporting actors; Ned Beatty as Rudy's dad, Jon Favreau as his mentor, Robert Prosky as the priest who helps him find his way, and Charles Dutton as the grounds keeper who opens doors for him, literally. The references to actual Notre Dame football give the story its foundation. But Sean Astin, never before or after better, or nearly as good, gives the performance of his young life.
All sports movies are a bit predictable, and they're usually designed to put a lump in your throat, and of course they only appeal to 49% of the population (sorry), but Rudy is inspirational in a way that only a sports movie can be.
It was a bit unsettling seeing Father Karras as Ara Parseghian, I kept expecting his eyes to turn yellow or something. All in all, I'd recommend this to anyone who's having a crisis of faith from the obstacles that stand between us and our goals, large and small.