American Underdog is a well made romantic-sports-drama that features some wonderful performances with Zachary Levi and Anna Paquin and tells a lovely story that will appeal to sports and non-sports fans alike.
American Underdog
(2021)
Genre(s): Sports, Drama, Romance
Lionsgate| PG – 112 min. – $39.99 | February 22, 2022
Date Published: 02/20/2022 | Author: The Movieman
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Lionsgate provided me with a free copy of the Blu-ray I reviewed in this Blog Post.
The opinions I share are my own.
THE MOVIE — 4/5 |
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Plot Synopsis: American Underdog tells the true story of Kurt Warner (ZACHARY LEVI), who longs to become an NFL player, but years of setbacks constantly prevent him from reaching his goal. As Kurt stocks shelves in a supermarket with his dreams all but out of reach, his wife (ANNA PAQUIN), coaches, and teammates encourage him to show the world the champion they know him to be. Kurt perseveres and finds the strength to become the legendary two-time NFL MVP, Super Bowl MVP, and Hall of Fame quarterback – proving that anything is possible with faith, family, and determination.
Quick Hit Review: Kurt Warner is one of the feel-good sports stories that I knew of, at least the basics, years back especially during his Super Bowls where it was mentioned many times that at one time he was stocking shelves to make ends meet and playing in the Arena Football League, not exactly the most prestigious league, though the times I had watched it offered some entertainment during the off-season. However, American Underdog fills in the holes, in particular his relationship with his future wife, Brenda. It’s this that is the driving force for the movie with the football element secondary. The chemistry between Zachary Levi, taking advantage of his Shazam physique, was great once again with so much charm and at least bears a slight resemblance to the real Kurt Warner, while Anna Paquin was wonderful as the strong-willed, even tenacious Brenda Warner and when those two are together, it’s pretty magical.
Under the direction of Andrew and Jon Erwin, they bring to life both the personal and professional sides to Kurt Warner with the game scenes, which during the NFL parts, interjected with real game footage, some good excitement. The story in of itself is your rise and fall that’s seen in plenty of sports movie and I think if not for the cast, probably would’ve been a lower budgeted TV movie. After watching, this I’m interested in tracking down the episode of EPSN’s “A Football Life” to hear from the real people. |
SPECIAL FEATURES – 3½/5 |
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This release comes with a glossy slip cover and inside is a redemption code for the Digital HD copy. Audio Commentary — Directors Andrew and Jon Erwin and Producer Kevin Downes Inspired (16:08) — Featurette that delves into the making of the film from casting and the story. Making the Cut (13:45) — This featurette focuses on the editing process. A Coach’s Faith (30:48) is an interview with former coach Dick Vermeil conducted by Heidi Gardner. New to the Scene: Hayden Zaller (6:10) is a featurette on the actor who played Zack. Meet the Champion (14:49) — Interviews with Kurt Warner (by Steve Mariucci; more interview footage with Vermeil; and with the filmmakers (The Erwin Brothers, Kevin Downes; conducted by Clay Travis). Behind the Game (8:13) — This looks at shooting the game footage. American Underdog: Behind the Story (3:39) is a summation of the movie and characters. More of an EPK like featurette. Deleted Scenes (17:44) — There are 11 scenes that didn’t make the cut. Included is an optional commentary explaining why they were removed. Theatrical Trailer (2:21) |
VIDEO – 4¾/5 |
| Lionsgate releases American Underdog onto Blu-ray where it’s presented in the original theatrical 2.39 widescreen aspect ratio and a 1080p high-definition transfer. For the better part, the picture here looks great with sharp detail throughout and well balanced colors, getting brighter during the sports scenes, especially the NFL footage. This is a clean transfer, no artifacts, aliasing or other flaws. |
AUDIO – 4½/5 |
| This comes with a Dolby Atmos track which is more than serviceable showcasing clear dialogue along with the many quiet scenes. This does come to life during the football scenes with the “roaring” fake crowds or like the scene with Warner trenching through a massive snow storm. |
OVERALL – 4/5 |
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American Underdog is a well made romantic-sports-drama that features some wonderful performances with Zachary Levi and Anna Paquin and tells a lovely story that will appeal to sports and non-sports fans alike. |
Check out some more 1080p screen caps by going to page 2. Please note, these do contain spoilers.