R.W.R.

Every once in awhile, I come across a movie that manages to reach out and inspire me to do better.  The Blind Side, directed and written by John Lee Hancock, is the story of Michael Oher.  Anyone who watches the NFL will know Michael Oher as the offensive lineman for the Baltimore Ravens.  Michael Oher's story is truly an inspiration for people who feel they have many obstacles in their lives and for those that already have overcome them.  The Blind Side is truly a must see for anyone of any background.

Quinton Aaron plays Michael Oher, a teenager who has been bounced around foster care for most of his life.  While staying with a friend, Michael is enrolled into a Christian school by his friend's father.  Initially, it is stated that Michael is an exceptional athlete for someone of his size, but after being accepted he is not allowed to play any sports until he can improve his grades.  Aaron does an superb job of showing Michael's hesitation with school and his distrust of his teachers.  Needless to say, Michael does not do well in school because of his quiet attitude and as a result of his neglected upbringing.

Matters then get worse for Michael but then take a positive turn.  After being thrown out of his friends house and living on the streets, Michael is seen and subsequently picked up by the Tuohy family.  The Blind Side really shines after this moment; Sandra Bullock who plays Leigh Anne Tuohy does an exceptional job portraying a tough, intelligent, southern woman who wants the best for Michael.  After her hesitation of bringing in a black teenager into her home, her interactions with Quinton become genuinely sincere and keep you glued to the film.  Her character grows and begins to see a side to life she was never exposed to before.  During Michael's stay with the Tuohys' he brings his grades up and is allowed to play in athletics.  After spending time with Michael while watching the film and seeing his sheer size, the audience knows how well football will suit him.

The Tuohy family's other members keep the film entertaining and their growth throughout the film is easy to pick up on.  Collins played by Lily Collins (daughter to Phil Collins) learns to accept people for who they are, she sees beyond color and into the pure heart within Michael.  S.J. the youngest of the Tuohy family is played by Jae Head, Jae keeps the film lighthearted and is not your typical annoying child actor.  He befriends Michael early in the film and is the quickest to accept him into the family.  Having a big brother who is ten times the size of you is never a bad thing in the eyes of S.J.  Sean Tuohy, played by country singer Tim McGraw, goes with the flow, he provides a quick wit and shows his support of Michael as well as Leigh Anne's decisions.  I initially didn't recognize McGraw until I saw the end credits, his acting was nothing short of perfect, and his care free attitude adds just the right amount of humor to his character and this film

Kathy Bates plays the role of Miss Sue, Michael's tutor.  Every time I see Kathy Bates I'm instantly reminded of Misery.  She has one very great and funny moment in the film where you see a little touch of Annie Wilkes come out.  I truly enjoyed this moment and any fan of misery will pick up on it.  Her character adds a very cynical humor to the film and also keeps Michael on the right path in his studies.

The Blind Side never once is slow or without a sad, happy or inspirational moment.  You truly feel good for Michael when he does well, you also feel sad when things aren't looking so bright for him.  The title of the movie itself while being a football term is also symbolic of Michael's way of dealing with problems.  Now I don't play professional football but I can understand where Michael was coming from.  I felt as though this film spoke to me personally, I then chose to write about The Blind Side as it inspired me to continue with my writing and hopefully towards a career in film review.  For anyone who feels like they are in a hopeless situation or just a great movie, don't miss The Blind Side.  I wish Michael Oher the best of luck in his NFL career, your story is truly a great one
5/5