Well done drama!

Rating: 8/10 (13 December 2013)

The film The Blind Side directed by Hancock (2009), written from a true story about Michael Oher, played by Quinton Aaron, is a fun and touching view into how lives can be changed when a selfless family helps someone without any family of his own to speak of. Leigh Anne Tuohy, played by Sandra Bullock, a busy career woman, wife, and mother sees a need and fills it, when she and her supportive husband Sean (Tim McGraw) find Michael homeless and walking in the rain. Humble Michael blends well with the Tuohy family as he learns and teaches lots of life lessons, ending up a star.
The themes of the drama touch on several categories. Categories such as social concerns around the disparity in income and access within the same city; and human dignity as a young man struggles to survive outside of the community he knows. But, most of all, the human relationships of people from a variety of social and financial backgrounds and how they can help and learn from one another as they grow into more fulfilled individuals. In addition, the film shows how people can grow to love and nurture others like family in a relatively short period of time.
Though the film begins rather slowly, the editing and sound crews do wonders in bringing to life. The use of flash and parallel cuts by the editor brings attention to the drama, fears, and action throughout the film. Both produced and ambient sounds along with the music in the movie heighten the experiences as if one were sitting in the car, the stands, or the living room with the family as they go through their daily adventures. When the time is taken to analyze the techniques used in the making of the film, it is amazing what the professionals behind the scenes can do to enhance the viewer's experience.
All in all the film is masterfully put together and may be useful in teaching many the joys and self-fulfillment received when stepping out of their comfort zone to share themselves and their good fortune with others. Much like the film Pretty Woman produced by Milchan (1990), also starring Sandra Bullock as Vivian, not only does the family rescue Michael from a life of despair and misfortune, but he "rescues them right back" by teaching them humility and gratitude. One can be fairly certain that Michael has not forgotten his "family" as he moved on to enjoy a successfully career with the Ravens.