The Gridiron

Unlike most movies of this type, it's obvious halfway through we will never really see a championship or anything like that. A happy ending for this group likely would have to be playing in just one real game, never mind winning. But as you have probably concluded, this team must have been quite successful to have a movie based on what they did. Photos and footage of the real team are shown, along with their accomplishments, at the end.

Still, it is inspiring to watch the misadventures of this group when they do no more than not give up. It is discouraging to see Derek continue to fall deeper and deeper in the debt and deal with even more obstacles, but maybe he'll pull himself out.

As a British movie, this doesn't have the wacky comedy expected from Americans. The laughs are more low-key but there is plenty of physical comedy, also low-key.

Dorsey Levens as the coach gives the real standout performance. He starts out as a stereotypical black American, but he shows real talent turning the comical group into a real team.

Michael Dixon as Derek isn't really easy to like, but he is appealing enough. Rebecca Summers as Kym is attractive and caring.

The Right Said Fred brothers (quite likable, and they also perform one of the songs used in the movie) have what Derek needs at their store.

I'm not a sports fan, but you don't have to be to enjoy this.