Not just another uplifting sports movie

Rating: 8/10 (7 March 2010)

I went into this movie expecting a made-for-TV style true story, with a bigger cast and inflated budget.
I was spectacularly wrong.
Without revealing too much, this movie is the true, uplifting story of Michael Oher. He is an overgrown, black, misunderstood young man who comes from a broken home. By chance he is accepted into a wealthy, predominately white, high school (due to his size and potential in football).
From here we see the true challenge he faces. He struggles to find shelter and warmth at night and lives out of a plastic bag.
Then begins his journey with the family of Sandra Bullock's character. In what is an outstanding performance, the best of her career, Bullock is believable and tough in portraying a woman of true strength and character.
Overall, this movie is great, capped off by strong performances. It is almost difficult to believe it is a true story. The sporting plot plays second fiddle to the true plot - the racial and class divides in the Southern States of America.