THE BLIND SIDE 3.5****
This is one of those BIG surprise movies that comes along every now and then. It is basically a medium-to-low budget, independent film where they did everything right and it has turned out to be a BIG audience favorite and a BIG money maker to boot. “The Blind Side” has literally “blind-sided” the traditional Hollywood crowd/producers by taking an “it’s been done before” sports story and successfully turning it into an endearing and inspiring movie that is good for the whole family. In fact, it should have received a PG rating rather than PG-13..there is so little that could be considered offensive , the family value of the film should have prevailed and allowed for a PG result.
The Blind Side" depicts the true story of Michael Oher, a homeless African-American youngster from a broken home, taken in by the Touhys, a well-to-do white family living in Memphis, TN, who help him fulfill his potential. At the same time, Oher's presence in the Touhys' lives leads them to some insightful self-discoveries of their own. As a football player and student, Oher works hard and, with the help of his coaches and adopted family, has the opportunity to make something of himself.
Leigh Ann Tuohy (Sandra Bullock), seems to have the life most women would envy, a wonderful supporting husband(Tim McGraw), and two great kids(Lily Collins and Jae Head). But one day while driving home, she sees, a larger than life teenager whom everybody calls Big Mike (Quinton Aaron). When she tries to talk to him, he comes across as quite shy and withdrawn. When she determines he is homeless, she decides to take him into her well-to-do home with the full support of her family. Michael is a man-boy of few words. This gentle giant brings out the best in other people, especially his new family. He is a teen without an attitude…..a rarity and , as it turns out, the same is true of the Tuohy kids, although they are more all-around-outgoing kids.
The soul of this excellent film is Sandra Bullock . She commands the screen… she is smart, sassy, and strong, Yet she endears herself to you with her touching relationship with Michael, who is authentically played by Quinton Aaron. Aaron is deceptively expressive and strong. Both are well cast and give excellent performances. Country singer, Tim McGraw (who is so believable as Bullock’s husband you may not recognize him) gives a solid performance and he holds his own next to Bullock's fast and feisty Leigh Anne. Jae Head, who plays the Tuohy's son, steals a lot of scenes with his quick wit and enthusiasm. There is also a small but good role for Kathy Bates.
“The Blind Side” will touch your soul and warm your heart…it’s a winner… a fine “feel-good” movie.
Clark