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Backwards Review

Other Critics provided by Metacritic.com

Critics scores range from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating more favorable reviews.

  • 3.0
    45

    out of 100

    Metascore®
    Mixed or average reviews
    based on a weighted average of all
    critic review scores.

  • 40

    out of 100

    Village Voice

    Subplots are introduced only to be resolved within minutes, characters jettisoned at a moment's notice. Those who can't do, teach; those who settle apparently end up pretty happy.

    Read Full Review

  • 40

    out of 100

    The New York Times Jeannette Catsoulis

    Pairing a dull romance with an even duller sport (at least as represented here), this cliché-ridden vanity project is more suited to the ABC Family channel than to the inside of a movie theater.

    Read Full Review

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For Families provided by Common Sense Media

OK for kids 10+

Drama is bland but teaches girls about competitive rowing.

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that Backwards is a sports drama that's more about a coach's journey than a group of players. Written by and starring a former rower, the movie offers a look at a sport that isn't usually depicted in movies (rowing) and encourages girls to discover their inner athlete. While the content is mild overall -- there's one use of the word "s--t" (as well as some other milder insult language) and a bit of flirting/kissing -- the themes might be a bit too mature (or uninteresting) for the under-10 set.

  • Families can talk about why more sports movies seem to concentrate on men/boys than women/girls. Which examples can you think of in both categories?
  • Did Backwards teach you anything about rowing you didn't know? Does it seem like a sport you'd want to try?
  • Do you think Abi ultimately made the right decision? Should she have chosen her own dream rather than her students'?

The good stuff
  • message true3

    Messages: Discipline and drive are encouraged as part of the competitive spirit needed to be as successful athlete. Strong "women in sports" message revolving around a sport that isn't usually represented in movies: rowing.

  • rolemodels true2

    Role models: Despite her flaws and her inability to accept being an alternate on the Olympic team, Abi is a role model for her dedication to rowing, as both a rower and a coach. Her advice that girls shouldn't be afraid to bring a little bit of aggression to their competitions is an important lesson for kids to learn.

What to watch for
  • violence false0

    Violence: Not an issue

  • sex false2

    Sex: Abi and Geoff flirt and eventually kiss.

  • language false3

    Language: One "s--t," plus "stupid," "loser," and other insults like "selfish," "lazy," and "old."

  • consumerism false0

    Consumerism: One scene in which Tootsie Rolls are shown.

  • drugsalcoholtobacco false0

    Drinking, drugs and smoking: Not an issue

An independent nonprofit dedicated to providing families the information they need to help kids thrive in a world of media and technology.

© Common Sense Media Inc. 2010. All rights reserved.

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Fan Reviews provided by

Average Rating: 5
Read all reviews Write a review at Fandango
5

Heartwarming sports romance by shannon7
Backwards is a charming, upbeat story with heart and substance. Whether you're a sports aficionado, a fan of romantic comedy or a devotee of James Van Der Beek, you'll find something to love. Plus, it is just so refreshing to see such a solid female cast - led by the talented Sarah Megan Thomas in her big screen debut. Backwards is "Bend it Like Beckham" for rowing. It brings excitement and dramatic tension to the often unappreciated rigors of this sport. After watching the exquisitely filmed racing scenes I have a much deeper appreciation of the passion and commitment rowing inspires for so many young athletes. Coming so soon after the Olympics, this film reminds us of the sacrifices behind athletic accomplishment and the rewards of true sportsmanship. Go see it!

Read all Backwards reviews at Fandango
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