Don't turn a blind eye to this one.

Rating: 9/10 (16 April 2010)

I am English and as such quite ignorant of the specifics of American Football. Fortunately I am not a lost cause as 'The Blind Side' does not revolve around the sport, despite featuring it heavily. In truth, the movie tells the story of the influence that one unfortunate individual and a wealthy family have on one another. 'The Blind Side' the title refers to is not the technical aspect of the game so much as the aspects of life that each party has been missing, the aspects of life that they discover through each other's presence. In essence the story is a rags-to-riches tale, which may contribute partially to its emotional power; however, this film is not so shallow, focusing on spiritual, rather than material wealth. Even when dabbling in clip montages the picture is never superficial.
Sandra Bullock delivers an Oscar-worthy performance in her award-winning role as Leigh Anne Tuohy, who takes broken youth Michael Oher under her wing when he starts attending the same Christian educational institute as her own children. With the love of a family and the support of a determined mother and father figure, the initially troubled and introverted Michael begins to excel in both studying and sports, despite the low expectations of his teachers. 'The Blind Side' encompasses not only Michael's transition as a character, but also the transition of his carers.
What is most refreshing about 'The Blind Side' is that the film does not lose itself in its serious tone, delivering the full spectrum of emotions including humour, entertaining the audience by allowing viewers to share not only the moments of grief and strife that these characters suffer, but also the moments of joy that they experience. Why should movies (Oscar contenders or not) sacrifice such affairs in order to maintain critical integrity?
Immersing and inspiring, 'The Blind Side' is a rare achievement in storytelling that, notwithstanding heartache and sorrow, conveys a consistent sense of realistic satisfaction that is sadly often lacking.
9/10