The Blind Side

I’m the first one to be skeptical of yet another victory over adversity sports movie—or recording artist story, for that matter—but The Blind Side is not just another sports movie.  As a matter of fact, it’s one of the best to come along in quite some time, and it works on all levels. Precious could have used some of The Blind Side’s spirit.

Both films focus on under-privileged, obese African American teens, but while Precious feels like a dirge, The Blind Side resembles an anthem. Yes, it’s considerably lighter, and less tragic, but it’s also more uplifting, humorous and hopeful. There is relief in the Blind Side, where there’s very little to be found in the relentless Precious. Both films do, however, have award-worthy performances in common.

Sandra Bullock completely redeems herself after All About Steve, playing Leigh Anne Tuohy, the plucky Memphis society mom who took Michael (Big Mike) Oher out of the projects and under her wing, and helped him become a star Old Miss player and first round NFL draft pick. Quinton Aaron does a good job as the understated Oher, and Tim McGraw is as good as we’ve ever seen him on the big screen as the Bullock’s long suffering yet congenial husband. Scenes are stolen, however, by the impish nine-year-old Jay Head, who plays the youngest Tuohey. That kid is a joy to watch, and already has my vote for a Best Young Actor Critics Choice Award.

The Blind Side is the perfect Thanksgiving treat for the whole family to watch after the dishes are done and the leftovers refrigerated. The teenage girls in your family will have already seen New Moon three times by then anyway. Inspiring in so many ways, The Blind Side is an excellent way to get the holiday party started.--Lisa Johnson Mandell