Consider This from NPR What Makes A Football Movie Great?
Feb 9, 2024
Stephen Thompson, host of NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour, dives into the allure of football films. He explores what makes these movies resonate, from iconic motivational speeches to classic underdog tales. The conversation highlights the emotional depth found in friendships, like that of Brian Piccolo and Gail Sayers. They also critique recent changes in football cinema, addressing societal issues like racism and the decline of mid-budget films. With Super Bowl weekend as context, the discussion is a fascinating look at the heart of America’s favorite sport.
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More Than Football
- The best football films explore deeper themes beyond the sport itself.
- These themes often involve human emotions, friendships, and relatable struggles.
Brian's Song Example
- Stephen Thompson mentions Brian's Song as a classic example of a tearjerker.
- This film focuses on the friendship between Brian Piccolo and Gale Sayers amidst Piccolo's cancer diagnosis.
Action Film Comparison
- Brittany Luse compares good football movies to action films.
- Both have clear goals and evoke easy-to-follow narratives.