Alright, everyone, as we are less than ten reviews away from my 600th review, we now review a film that involves basketball. But this is most likely not any ordinary basketball movie. It is one that involves a coach that’s played by Woody Harrelson, and he has to coach some basketball players that , well, weren’t exactly his first choice at first. So now, let’s discuss the one, and only, Champions.
Plot: After minor leagues basketball coach named Marcus (Woody Harrelson) makes some big mistakes that force him to get fired, and choose between 18 months in prison, or community service that involves coaching intellectually challenged students at a local community center, he makes the latter choice. Now that he does this, will he help these new students succeed with basketball, and life overall?
Okay, from the trailers, it would seem as if this film looked somewhat silly, yes? Well, even if the movie may be a little silly at times (which was probably a mostly good thing ), there is still some heart to this film. Sure, we have seen a coach, or sports player get into trouble enough that they have to serve time in prison, or serve the community somehow (1992’s The Mighty Ducks, or 2005’s The Longest Yard, for example, anyone?). However, the way that it is handled here is handled well in terms of how the main character, and the players of his newer team each end up having really good character growth, the characters having to learn some valuable lessons, especially Coach Marcus, and things like that. Speaking of which, this film does a surprisingly good job of incorporating good lessons about learning to see things from other people’s perspectives, and not just making them see yours all the time, always showing humility, having a loving, and compassionate heart for those who may have disabilities, and some other good lessons like those. Champions also has really good acting, especially from Woody Harrelson, Cheech Marin, and Kaitlin Olson, along with the rest of the cast. Additionally, it was also really cool to see the film crew members actually seek out people who may have had disabilities in real life, and who may not have normally acted on a regular basis, and actually have them be stars in this film. In addition to all of this, the movie has some really funny lines, and hilarious moments overall. Well, truth be told, Champions seems to work really well as a combination of comedy, and drama. One other thing to mention is that the ending is handled surprisingly well. I won’t give away what happens. However, let’s just say that there are aspects of the ending that could help you have a better, and more positive outlook on life.
With all of that said, are there any negatives? Well, there are a couple. First off, the relationship between Marcus, and Alex, who is the sister of one of the players from the community team, while a good relationship, can feel a little strange at times. Not only that, but the language, and humor can go a little over the top at times. No, not to the point where this film should have been rated R, not even close. Still, not sure that it was all necessary, you know?
And that’s my review for Champions. if you like actor like Woody Harrelson, and Cheech Marin, or Amy if the other cast, and you want a mostly comedy with good heart in it, along with a film that could teach some valuable lessons to the viewer, then Champions is worth your time. The acting is good, the movie has heart, there are some valuable lessons to take away from this film, and certain aspects of the ending are very interesting to think about. All to say, definitely see Champions, and see what you think!
Final Grade: A-
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