Review: The Blind Side

Grade: B+

The Blind Side is inspired by the true story of football player, Michael Oher. It shows how Michael Oher was a young, homeless, over-sized, under-educated African-American boy who is essentially living on the streets until one day the Touhy's, a rich, white, christian family, decide to take him in. As the Touhy's decide to help Michael reach his potential in the classroom and, eventually, on the field. During which, his presence leads the Touhy's to some insightful self discovery. Living in his new environment, Oher has to overcome all new challenges and the Touhy's become so attached to the boy that they consider him apart of their family.

This movie was actually better than I thought it was going to be, but it still wasn't great. I liked the direction that the movie took. Whereas most movies that take on similar subjects, focus mainly on the kids troubled past and keep having the kid do wrong things, this movie would only briefly touch on his past once or twice and mostly focus on his present and possible future. It was a really nice change of pace. I also liked that the football aspect wasn't the front and center story line, much like the title and trailer's would have you believe, that his story and relationship with the Touhy family took center stage. I can admit that the story was very nice and enjoyable and even touching at times. My few problems with this movie were that it hit some usual cliché moments and some parts just seemed unnecessary.

Sandra Bullock (The Proposal, Speed) portrayed Leigh Ann Touhy, a loving and caring family mother who decides to take in Oher and help him. Sandra Bullock was recently nominated for her performance in this movie, I would have to admit that is rightfully so. She gave a very good performance that really helped hold the movie together and she, thankfully, didn't go overboard with the accent, it was very subtle and non-distracting. Relative new comer Quinton Aaron plays the role of Michael Oher. Even though the character doesn't say much of anything during the first half of the movie, Aaron gave an amazing performance in this movie. The movie also featured performances by Tim McGraw, Jay Head, Lilly Collins, Ray McKinnon and Kathy Bates.

The movie was rather enjoyable and it did surprise me as it was better than I thought it would be, but I honestly don't think I would have nominated it for best picture when compared to some other movies that came out last year. I will say that I highly encourage people to see it as it is inspirational and satisfying.

Great quote: "Who knew we would have a black son before we met a democrat."