Every cliche in the book

Rating: 3/10 (18 June 2001)

This film is actually quite amazing in two ways. First, there is the use of the cliche. I wracked my brain trying to think of some sports movie cliche that they missed using, but could not think of a one. The "team of misfits", the evil professionals who refuse to accept them, the "hidden talents", the "soccer kicker who would be a great football player", the love interest that has nothing to do with the story, the fickle fans, and even the classic bar fight. They are all here. In fact they are the entire story. Just take every sports movie cliche you can think of, toss them in a hat, and dump them on the ground. Instant script.
The other amazing thing about this movie is it's predictability. It's common that you'll be watching a movie and have a good idea of what is going to happen next. In this movie, you always know everything that is going to happen. The script telegraphs every move. Don't expect to be surprised, it won't happen.
What's really strange is that you will enjoy watching this movie. The antics are funny, the cast is wacky, and the cheerleaders are fun. Don't expect to be surprised by anything other than this fact and you'll walk away happy you saw The Replacements.