Review of 'The Senior': Michael Chiklis Stars as a 59-Year-Old College Football Player in Rod Lurie's Real-Life Athletic Fantasy
In the realm of sports films, "The Senior" stands out as a movie based on a true story that feels more like reality than most fabricated sports dramas. Directed by Rod Lurie and released by Angel Studios, this crowd-pleaser follows the life of Mike Flynt, a 59-year-old man who re-joins his former West Texas college football team at Sul Ross State University.
Set in 1970, the film portrays Mike Flynt, a former middle linebacker and team captain, as a leader with a vice for fighting, which led to his expulsion from school. However, the story takes an unexpected turn when the idea of Mike rejoining the team is proposed during a 35-year college reunion. The plot revolves around Mike's attempt to do so as a kind of life metaphor to heal the past.
Mike Flynt is portrayed by Michael Chiklis, who brings the heart and soul of a tough Teddy bear to the role. His character is haunted by his bully of a father, and he struggles to be a supportive parent to his college-instructor son, Micah. One of the coaches in the film compares Mike Flynt to the character Rudy from the movie "Rudy."
The film includes a training montage and scenes where Mike, the older man, interacts with his multi-racial team of younger players. It's a testament to Mike's leadership and the camaraderie that forms between him and his teammates.
"The Senior" is unabashedly manipulative, earning its emotional impact both on and off the field. Mike Flynt's wife, Eileen, played by Mary Stuart Masterson, stands by him throughout his journey, providing a strong support system.
The film also delves into religious piety, following in the footsteps of books like "Instant Replay: The Green Bay Diary of Jerry Kramer." The book provides an inside look at the 1967 season of the Green Bay Packers, chronicling the intense discipline under Vince Lombardi. Much like the insanely punishing discipline of being coached by Vince Lombardi, as depicted in the book, "The Senior" balances pain and faith.
In the present day, Mike Flynt is a construction-site foreman, married for decades to Eileen, and has several grown children. He discovers that his father kept a scrapbook of his sports clippings and a Bible inscribed with the words "Lord, give me the strength to forgive others. And myself." This discovery adds another layer to Mike's journey, highlighting the importance of forgiveness and self-reflection.
Rod Lurie, the director, has made films about politics, war, and now a heart-tugging faith-based football drama. "The Senior" is a testament to his versatility as a filmmaker, showcasing his ability to tell compelling stories that resonate with audiences.
