The Gridiron Never Looked Classier

Rating: 9/10 (15 November 2010)

You may not necessarily have to be a football fan to like this movie, but "Rudy" stands the test of time as one of the best football movie ever put on celluloid. It goes beyond what "Paper Lion" tried to achieve in the 1960's but this one steps the ante by a mile to provide you with the quest for one's quest to be the best that he could be and to have a role model any underdog can look upon to.
Daniel "Rudy" Ruettiger always has aspirations to play for the Notre Dame Flaming Irish. His dreams were put on hold when his friend suddenly dies, Rudy is determined more than ever to play for Notre Dame much to the dismay of his wife (Lili Taylor) and is dad (Ned Beatty).
Sure it's not really a football film as we are witnessed to just one game and aside from a scene in the early-goings there are no football scenes until the latter portions of the movie.
The acting truly defines brilliance. Sean Astin was very stunning in his role as Rudy, his performance will make you reach out for the tissue box, but there are moments where he adds some humor to his performance. Along with his early childhood role in "The Goonies" and later on as Sam from "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy, Astin has put on a resume that spans over 25 years in the movie industry. It's a shame he's been overlooked over the years, by lesser talents like Corey Feldman and Haley Joel Osement. This guy has showcased he has charm and talent which goes together like fish and chips. Charles Dutton provides a stimulating performance as the gruff but kindhearted groundskeeper. Dutton prevents his role from being a throwback role by making it a pivotal supporting role. The musical score is something to get the party going. Sure it gets repetitive at times, it succeeds in keeping the spirit of this film alive.
Sure it can be overlooked by other classic sports movies like "Rocky" or "Raging Bull", but "Rudy" is right up there with the big guns. What makes this movie a standout is the wonderful acting, the never give up message behind it the story and a character you could cheer for the whole way through.