OK for kids 12+
Syrupy sports drama uplifts but glosses over deep issues.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this formulaic but uplifting family sports drama -- which is based on the true story of football player Michael Oher -- centers on messages about inclusion, the benefits of hard work, and the importance of family. That said, it sometimes feels as if it glosses over many of the challenges that Oher and his "rescuer" (socialite Leigh Anne Tuohy, played by Sandra Bullock) must have faced. And while it alludes to the prejudice that exists in certain situations, aside from a scene or two, it skirts the topic instead of truly tackling it, and some scenes depict characters who are blatantly racist. Still, Oher’s life story in inarguably encouraging. While language and sexual content are quite mild, you can expect a couple of brief violent scenes, references to drug use, and social drinking.
- Families can talk about what motivates Leigh Ann to welcome Michael into her home. Was it a purely selfless move? Why does she later say that he changed her life (and not the other way around)?
- Why does Michael trust the Tuohys? What appeals to him about them? Does the movie adequately address the skepticism and prejudice that Michael and the Tuohys faced when they became a family?
- How accurate do you think the movie is? Why might filmmakers have changed certain parts of the story?
The good stuff
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Messages: The movie's message is one of inclusion -- that no barrier, including race or income, should get in the way of doing right by others. But there’s a hint of condescension in its approach to the topic. Another lesson: Hard work does pay off.
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Role models: Leigh Anne sets a good examle as an affluent socialite who lends a helping hand to a child and doesn’t let go (her entire family is helpful, as are the teachers). Michael is also a lesson in fortitude, rarely giving in to the aggression he must feel from having been neglected as a child. But on the downside, nearly all of the movie's African-American characters are portrayed as either impoverished, drug-addicted, or both, which reinforces certain stereotypes. And some characters freely indulge in racism.
What to watch for
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Violence: A fight in a drug den nearly leads to gunfire. A gun is brandished, and another character alludes to “packing” a weapon. Some jaw-breaking action on the football field. Flashback scenes show children being wrested from their mother without her consent, which is mildly traumatic to watch.
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Sex: A husband and wife lovingly kiss and make out; references to “tapping that.” Some ogling.
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Language: Relatively few uses of words like "ass" (which a woman points out as being inappropriate), "hell," "damn," "tits," and "oh my God."
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Consumerism: BMW logo is visible; one character owns a number of Taco Bell franchises, and that company and other fast-food restaurants are mentioned by name.
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Drinking, drugs and smoking: Some beer drinking in a social context. One scene has an adult offering a teenager beer; he takes one sip. Drug paraphernalia is clearly visible, and a woman’s drug habit is discussed.
Fan Reviews provided by
5
BEAUTIFUL STORY!!!!!! by NYKMGR
I am a sap with "poverty to positive" story lines... Especially those that are based on a true story.....
I was misty in the beginning and cried on and off throughout. Very sad to know what this man went through and experienced in his early life - but cried tears of joy at the end.
I loved it. SB's acting was superb! All of the other actors were great. Will definitely be purchasing the DVD.
Btw, I disagree with other reviewers that this is good for ALL ages - it is not. There is some light drug scenes and sexual connotations. Also, the previews that are shown before this movie should NOT be seen by children under 12.
5
The Blind Side --- Viewed with Open Eyes! :o) by jmb927
I went into the theater with little expectation, thinking I was going to see a sappy movie with my wife and kids. Thank goodness that New Moon was sold out. We chose to see The Blind Side. After watching the movie, I left the theater with a little more bounce in my step and some additional warmth in my heart seeing how there are still people out there who care for others, not just themselves.
The story line was phenomenal, and more impressive, it is based on a true story. I believe this made the film that much more touching and personal. The acting was very good as well. Sandra Bullock was brilliant, as was Quinton Aaron who played Michael Oher.
It is a pleasure to be able to go to the movie theater and watch a movie that is for the WHOLE family. We have 17 and 14 year-old boys and an 11-year old daughter. Everyone enjoyed the move and were thoroughly entertained. The movie runs a full 2 hours, but I never checked my watch and none of my kids were shifting in their seats.
5
the Best FEEL Good Movie of this YEAR! by fluffy1959
What can you say about the Blind Side? The actors were believable with Sandra Bullock as the spunky but super mom Leigh Anne Tuohy. She runs the show and her handsome husband, played by Tim McGraw is happiest when he is doing whatever his wife wants to do. This familhy is all inclusive, by taking Big Mike, played by newcomer Quinton Aaron, you want to believe that happy ever after does exist. He is quiet and uneducated from a poor income, drug induced family whose mother's drug problems have made him a ward of the state. The redemption comes when the whole family make it their mission to help him, to clothe him, get him a tutor, help train and coach him and more importantly make him a real family member. You wonder what would happen in real life if more people would take a chance or a risk on a needy kid, would the outcome be the same given the same set of circumstances. Nevertheless, the crowded movie theatre stood up and clapped at the ending of it! Enough said.
4
Eye Opening by chikflik
I thoroughly enjoyed The Blind Side. It's a relatively simple story, yes predictable with all the potential to be sappy, but it's the simplicity that makes it work. By far, one of Sandra Bullock's best as a wealthy, outspoken yet caring women who takes in a homeless teenager and makes him part of her family. "Big Mike" is a fish out of water in a private school, dubbed sub par by the teachers, and looked upon with amusement by the mostly white student population, but there is more to Mike than anyone thought. During this holiday season it gives you pause to realize that one person can make a difference in someone's life, and it is well worth the journey.
5
Five Word Review by andy bob
feel-good wholesome inspiring eye-opening funny
5
The Blind Side by kpfrye
Great movie! Sandra Bullock was awesome. Very good movie to bring the whole family to.
5
What a WONDERFUL movie experience by Texas Critic
For context, my favorite movie of the year has been Inglorious Basterds. But The Blind Side was so good that I felt compelled to go through the hassle of creating a Fandango account to allow me to share a review. These are type of movies that Hollywood needs to make more of. The kind that make you leave the theater smiling. Having you discuss your favorite scenes with your wife and kids hours/days after the movie is over. Making you really want to go out and do something to make a difference for someone else. Did I mention that Sandra Bullock is easy on the eyes? When is the last time you saw a movie that received genuine, wide-spread applause at the end of the credits? Go see this movie and take your family and a few friends. It really is a wonderful movie.
5
Refreshing Respite from Hollywood Hate by Couch_Fat_Nostrilhair
Stunning! Southern Christians portrayed as something other than profoundly ignorant inbread biggoted trailer trash. They are actually shown (for the most part) as loving, intelligent, sacrificial human beings. Maybe that is why "The Blind Side" was as packed as "New Moon". Are average Americans tired of preachy environmentalist and anti-war diatribes from Hollywood's social left? I certainly am. Sandra Bullock, whose recent career has been characterized by such forgettable frivolities as "Miss Congenialty" deserves an oscar nod here. This story is made believable by fine acting and a truly uplifting story.
5
The Blind Side by suzannec2006
Ok, somebody named Sandra Bullock deserves an Oscar nod! She played the part of Leanne Tuhey to a tee. The movie makes you laugh, makes you cry, and has all the great aspects of an award winner. Top all that off with the football and who doesn't love a good underdog story. It is by far, one of the most heartfelt movies I have seen in a long time. Reminds me of Remember the Titans! Go see it!!
5
Loved The Blind Side by Chelynham
It's a movie that lets you experience a range of emotions and inspires you to be a better person. It is without a doubt, one of the best movies of the year. The story developed at the perfect pace. It didn't drag on as some dramas do. Sandra Bullock and the rest of the cast were terrific. The boy who plays Sandra Bullock's son was hilarious. Quinton Aaron, who plays Michael Oher, was perfect for the part! He doesn't speak much, but he conveys his emotions, pain, and hurt superbly through his facial expressions and through the little he says. When he cracks a little smile, it really makes you so happy. You can easily imagine how he feels throughout the whole movie. The interactions between the cast members, especially between Sandra Bullock and Quinton Aaron, between Quinton Aaron and the little boy, and between Tim McGraw and Sandra Bullock are hysterical! Everyone of all ages should watch this movie. There is no real violence (besides football tackles) or sexual inuendos