Six Man, Texas

"Six Man, Texas" is a loving look at America at it's best. This film captures the essence of what built our country and what makes us great: the close community ties that make Americans feel like family. Football is merely one tangible example of how small town people feel connected to one another. It is like a glimpse into a simpler time of life when we all had some common goal, a collective dream for our lives as a people and not just as individuals. As such, "Six Man, Texas" has broad audience appeal, inspiring pride in those who cherish football, family and " The American Way". I found this movie touched a part of my heart in spite of the fact that I have no experience with football or small rural communities.

The movie introduces you to several towns, you meet teachers, coaches, students and football players. Eventually the focus narrows to one town in particular. The footage of the football scenes have more power to them because you meet the players. These kids are not actors but they are so genuine and so happy that someone has taken an interest in their plight. AND I'm not a huge football fan, but I cared what was happening to them as it played out on the screen. By the end of the film, I truly cared about the people in these small towns. The movie was able to break through stereotypes so that I connected with the six man teams even though I didn't really know about six man football and I would not have thought I could relate to the towns people and yet I did. The movie is not about football so much as it's about what is happening to the towns and the people in them. Football is actually a metaphor in this movie and it's nicely done as well as having an authentic feel to it.

This is a compelling story of perseverance and rural community connections as played out in the fascinating and little known game of six-man football. You don't need to like or understand sports to get caught up in this film. It presents a fresh view of small town challenges and rewards, and you'll remember and wish you could follow the stories of many of the people you meet long after. There is a strong core story, but along the way the film also touches on social issues in rural America, the economics of agriculture, and even the academic benefits of smaller high schools. The characters and atmosphere of the film convey complete and refreshing authenticity.

I love Texas and I love football, but this film surprised me with so much more. The real people in this story touch your heart in so many ways and remind you what Americans are in their very best, most earnest selves. The film is both inspirational and entertaining. I did not lose interest at any point, nor was I ever aware of the passage of time. It is engaging, informative, and a true representation of small town America. The camera action at the beginning of the film may be disconcerting for some, but just be patient for a little while. See Six Man, Texas and get caught up in the lives, the hopes, the dreams, and the story of these people. It's a film for all ages, and if you are lucky enough to be an American, it's your story, too.