Movie Review: The Blind Side
This true story follows the rise of football star Michael Oher from his days as a homeless youth to his life with the Tuohy family. Oher discovers as much as life has burdened him with problems there are people who reach out and provide a soft landing spot for those who are suffering. The Tuohy family brings Oher into their home, fighting against prejudice and championing Oher to his teachers, coach and neighbors when no one else believes in him.
The Blind Side is presented without extreme sentimentality in the script or in the performances by the cast. It would have been easy for this story to be taken too far in terms of sentiment, instead the director and actors keep the story touching and real. The script is well written, capturing the spirit of this compelling story for the screen. Sandra Bullock won the Oscar for best actress for her role as Leigh Anne Tuohy, and it is indeed an excellent performance, her best to date and the highlight of this film. Quinton Aaron does a good job of relaying the pain Oher experienced without going overboard with emotion. Tim McGraw is very effective as Sean Tuohy, successfully playing the role in an understated, realistic way.
This is a sports themed movie, but the true emphasis of the story is on family, connection, and a discussion of race in our country, all of which this story does very well. This is a good movie and one you will want to add to your must see list.
2009. Directed by John Lee Hancock. Starring Sandra Bullock, Quinton Aaron, Tim McGraw, Jae Head, Lily Collins and Kathy Bates.
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