National Champions

Nothing is inevitable except the truth.

A fictionalized version on an interesting topic in the college football scene. The movie showed what a boycott against the NCAA on the issue of treating student athletes as employees would look like.

The first great thing about the movie was J. K. Simmons. Previously he was a ruthless music coach, and now he's an old, broken college football coach with the desire of winning the national championship with his team. He again brought passion and energy to his role. His dialogues were powerful, and can be emotional too. He can be both fearsome and convincing. What an amazing actor.

The story itself was amazing as well. It's an intense stabbing back and forth between the brave college football quarterback and the administration. Each tried or was forced to bring the other down. It became personal very quickly, and I was on board for most of it.

Overall, a gripping sport drama. 8-8.5/10.

8/10 - despite some clunky dialogue/story elements and me knowing next to nothing about college football, this fascinating dramatization of the ongoing NCAA debate is truly gripping and is empowered by the fantastic acting performances of Stephan James, J. K. Simmons, and most of all, Uzo Aduba (who in another universe would be Oscar-nominated for this emotionally riveting performance)

As a 116 mins long sports drama, I was expecting to see at least one game. But instead it was scenes in and out of hotel rooms with some soap-opera melodramatics and twists. I will say though, this did feel very real, and I'm curious if this story was conceived as a slap in the face to college football et al. The performances by all were excellent and captivating, especially J. K. Simmons, and the only reason I sat through the entire film. The ending was underwhelming, and I never did get to see any game, but the film was still unique and well put together. This may not be for everyone, especially if you don't follow college football or sports in general. It's a generous 7/10 from me.

It would be a good storyline if it is based on true story. Then it is interesting to see what is going on in those private meetings. However, if it is not based on the true story..... the script is kind of okay.

I have no idea how they paid so many great actors to be in this. The plot is slow moving. The pivotal moment of information doesn't really make sense. It's a lazy writer trying to make money off a very controversial topic.