Movie Review: The Blind Side

by Justin Velasquez

December 4, 2009

This is the time when people tend to think about a year almost complete, reflect and cringe at mistakes that were made and rejoice at good deeds that were performed.  Everyone, of course, contemplates the many things that they're thankful for.  Good health, a happy home, a successful life - those are obvious things that many appreciate.  For professional football player Michael Oher (Quinton Aaron) he probably has the most to be thankful for - he was given a chance. 

The Blind Side is a true story chronicling Oher's chance encounter with the loving family that took him in and raised him as their own.  As much as one would like to think that this is a football movie, this is a family drama which proves that there are still Good Samaritans in this world.  Without being too sappy and over-emotional, The Blind Side is the perfect film to remind people that good deeds, love and kindness still grossly outweigh material goods.

Sean (country singer Tim McGraw) and Leigh Ann Tuohy (Sandra Bullock, The Proposal) find a homeless teenager wandering the streets of Memphis wearing a polo shirt and shorts - in the freezing cold.  Leigh Ann makes the easy choice to take in this giant man-child, a student at her children's school who's aptly named Big Mike.  The Tuohys initially take him in for the night but because he has nowhere else to go they make the incredible decision to help Michael get the opportunity he never received.  In addition, Leigh Ann and Sean make the incredible decision to become Michael's legal guardians. 

Leigh Ann is the type of woman whom you definitely want on your side.  Strong-willed and outspoken, she's willing to fight those battles that others find impossible to win.  After taking in Michael, Leigh Ann makes every effort to find out about the boy's past while at the same time takes care of him and her two children, daughter Collins (Lily Collins) and S.J. (an impressive Jae Head).  Through flashbacks it's revealed that Michael lived a less than ideal childhood - his mother was a drug addict, his father was nowhere to be found and he was in and out of foster homes more often than Jay Cutler throws interceptions. 

Michael attends Briarcrest Christian School with Collins and S.J.  The fact that he's attending Briarcrest is a miracle.  His academic transcripts, what little that the administration found, reflect a student with very poor grades.  But Briarcrest, probably for more selfish reasons, extended a warm hand to Michael and they allowed him to enroll (another sign that people have good hearts).  Thanks to these incredible acts of kindness it's here at Briarwood where Michael's true talents are discovered.  Michael's big, tall, strong and fast, and Briarwood's football coach takes notice.  Michael turns into a fine football player and is recruited by some of college football's biggest programs.  In addition, thanks to the kindness and love shown to him Michael becomes a strong student.  His transformation from forgotten child to everyday teenager is complete and the next step for Michael and his fascinating story is manhood.  He won't be alone anymore because his family has his back.

What's important to realize is that the relationship between Michael and the Tuohys is subtly balanced.  Leigh Ann, Sean, Collins and S.J. all give their time and efforts in order to help Michael achieve his potential.  Michael, just by being a part of the family, is able to introduce a different perspective on life.  Even though Michael hails from a different and harsher background than they can comprehend, his life compliments the Tuohys', and vice versa.  He's changing their lives while simultaneously they're changing his.

Although the film is about Michael Oher's incredible life, the film is a showcase of Sandra Bullock's unforgettable performance.  Bullock, known mostly for action-comedies and romantic comedies, finally gets to stretch her legs in a role that was tailor-made for her.  Leigh Ann is stubborn yet loveable, outspoken yet sincere, driven yet caring - and that combination is perfect for an actress of her abilities.  The last time she was able to show off anything close to this was in 2004's Crash but that feature was an ensemble piece, and her performance was drowned out by other stellar performances.

The Blind Side, a surprisingly enjoyable film, is able to combine heartfelt drama with timely humor.  John Lee Hancock pulled double duty since he served as the film's writer and director.  He is in familiar territory, having filmed a similarly-themed "man overcomes huge obstacles to realize his potential"-film in 2002 with The Rookie.  Probably the most touching "sports" film that you will ever see, The Blind Side is a perfect example of the amazing things that one can accomplish when one has unlimited love and support.

3.5 Stars out of Four