Based on the true story of Ernie Davis (Rob Brown), this movie actually hits an unexpected end.
The story is set in the 40s & 50s. The super-talented football player recognizes his talent at a very early age mostly due to the hard decisions he's forced to make. He makes his mark through the local winnings. He gets the attention of coach Ben Schwartzwalder (Dennis Quaid) which brings the turning point to his life. Coach helps him to get admission in Syracuse University where he is well received albeit gradually and after a few more wins.
After some very demading games he finally gets chosen for the NFL. This is where the end begins. Spoiler alert - stop reading if you want to watch the movie.
Movie has hints about the racial lines - how deep or dark those were then. And to a moment it seems as if he's going to leave Football and join NAACP but that's not what happens. What happens is, Leukemia. At 23. And that takes Ernie away right before he's set to hit the pinnacle.
As a movie, it was nicely done. Some twists and turns and great momentum. Only thing that I didn't like was the sad ending. But what can you do? Movie imitated the life, however sad that was.
Star rating: 3/5
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