‘The Senior Review: Michael Chiklis Scores In Rod Luries Stirring Sports Drama
Every good sports movie needs an underdog to draw in viewers. The new film from director Rod Lurie ( The Last Castle , The Outpost ) has a real-life feel that would seem impossible to believe if a screenwriter had made it. It was Mike Flint , who returned to play for his alma mater after 37 years at the age of 59, becoming one of the oldest men to ever play the game.
Brilliantly played by Michael Chiklis , he is the true hero of The Senior , which recently premiered at the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival. When the film is released in theaters, this crowd-pleaser is expected to have strong appeal at the box office, especially in non-metropolitan areas. Lines may form at Texas movie theaters.
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The story begins in 1970, when Flint was a star quarterback at Sully Ross State University in Alpine, Texas. Unfortunately, he also has a violent temper, which we see in a terrifying flashback, instilled in him by his no less aggressive father (James Badge Dale). After being involved in several violent confrontations, Flint was expelled from college before he could complete his studies.
It was 37 years later, in 2007, when it emerged that Flint, now working in the construction industry, wasn't slowing down, but was instead struggling at work. It's clear that despite his happy marriage to the beautiful Eileen (Mary Stuart Masterson, who never loses her spark on screen), Flint has unfinished business. So when he joins his former teammates for a reunion and one of them jokingly suggests he go back to school, finish his degree and get back on the field, Flint impulsively decides to go for it.
Watch a funny out-of-the-water scene where Flint, still in good physical shape, tries out a skeptical coach (an underrated Rob Corddry), who finally agrees to give it a try and meets his amazing teammates. , all of whom are about 40 years younger than her. Although they teased him humorously, especially for his inspired musical choices ("Rubberband Man" by the Spinners among other oldies), most of them treated Flint with respect, calling him "Sir" or "Mr." Flint", which really frightened him. However, Flint, deserving of an AARP award, gave his best performance: after a particularly impressive performance, he said to his colleagues: "Fred Flintstone taught me, boy."
Unfortunately, not all of Flint's teammates appreciated his presence, including the one who hit him with a low blow that caused a serious neck injury. So not only does Flint have to prove to his coaches and teammates that he can play despite his age, he also has to prove to his doctors that he won't suffer any permanent damage.
The screenplay by Robert Ezell ( The Great Debaters ) blends the story's inherent humor with strong emotional beats — including Flint's tumultuous relationship with his adult son (Brandon Flynn), who reflects on his past issues with his father; and his loving relationship with his wife, which makes it clear that he expects to be consulted on important decisions. The latter turns into one of the best scenes in the film when Elaine lays down the law on her timid husband, something Masterson absolutely nails. The film also features religious elements that should be in keeping with the target audience, but not too rigid like many religious films.
Skillfully directed by Lowery , The Senior follows the standard sports movie template with an emotional motivational speech (which the coach allows Flint to deliver for dramatic purposes) and a big game at the end, providing a suitably inspiring climax. But the familiar tunes are so expertly crafted that they don't feel manipulative. And while you may be shocked and shocked to discover that the film is frankly honest, it's not so horrifying as to detract from its overall impact.
The real MVP is Chiklis, who brings a sense of humor, wit, and an energy that makes you root for his real characters from start to finish. The actor, clearly pushing himself both physically and mentally here, gives his best performance since his award-winning work in The Shield .
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