The story of NFL MVP and Hall of Fame quarterback, Kurt Warner, who went from stocking shelves at a supermarket to becoming an American Football star.
Few things are worse than a bad sports movie, often the result of poor execution or a flawed script. Similarly, few things can exhilarate more than a well-told narrative that both revels in the on-the-field exploits, as well as tugs at the heartstrings in just the right measure. Happily, “American Underdog” falls into the latter category, sure-footedly chronicling the true story of Kurt Warner’s extraordinary NFL career, despite long odds and humble beginnings.
Even fans reasonably well acquainted with the comings and goings of the National Football League may find a surprise or two here. Kurt Warner’s unlikely tale of adversity and eventual triumph culminating in multiple Most Valuable Player accolades and induction into the NFL Hall of Fame – all as an undrafted free agent that nobody seemed to want – is about as compelling as things can get. “American Underdog” has a lot of things going for it on paper and delivers on the promise at every turn.
Zachary Levi as Kurt Warner – an actor that shares many physical characteristics with his real-life counterpart – solidly anchors the proceedings from start to finish. Anna Paquin as Brenda Meoni also turns in a superb performance as the object of Warner’s affection. She plays a divorced former Marine with two small children, the oldest named Zack (Hayden Zaller) who is legally blind. Other standout supporting cast members include Dennis Quaid as Dick Vermeil, Ser’Darius Blain as teammate Mike Hudnutt, Adam Baldwin as Warner’s college coach at Northern Iowa, Bruce McGill as Iowa Barnstormer arena football coach and owner Jim Foster, and many others.
Of note is the fact that Dick Vermeil has previously been portrayed by Greg Kinnear in the excellent “Invincible.” That film starred Mark Wahlberg as the undrafted Vince Papale, who unexpectedly earned a spot on the roster of the Philadelphia Eagles for three seasons. Vermeil served as head coach for the Philadelphia Eagles, St. Louis Rams, and the Kansas City Chiefs – in each instance taking a poorly performing team to a much higher level, including two Super Bowl appearances. The first occurred with the Philadelphia Eagles, albeit ending in a loss to the Oakland Raiders. The second came during his tenure as the Rams head coach, securing a victory over the Tennessee Titans with Warner as quarterback. At some point down the line, I would expect to see a biopic detailing Vermeil’s impressive string of accomplishments at both the collegiate and professional levels. It’s another yarn ripe for the telling.
“American Underdog” brings to mind other fine character-based motion pictures with the National Football League as a backdrop. The underrated “Draft Day” starring Kevin Costner, Jennifer Garner, and the late Chadwick Boseman is certainly worth a look if you haven’t seen it. The film contains a surprisingly elaborate plot and strong production values that only improve with repeated viewings. Although fictitious, the cast includes Roger Goodell, commissioner of the NFL as himself, sportscaster Chris Berman also as himself, and numerous satisfying references to actual teams, players, and stadiums throughout the U.S.
Expertly directed by Andrew and Jon Erwin, “American Underdog” does a nice job of blending archival game footage with recreated scenes that intermix across the screen seamlessly. The action is palpable, but never overdone. Well-paced and engaging, this delightful film will please audiences of all ages – the kind of sports movie that comes along once in a great while. Highly recommended.
In Theaters Saturday, December 25th
