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Posted by CK-Auctions Disney keeps cranking out these fact-based inspiring sports movies, throwing everything at the wall to see what sticks. Now and then, something does. "Invincible" does. It's a lean, efficient, classy film, uplifting without being schmaltzy. It clearly was made by people who didn't just want to churn out another football story; they wanted to make a good movie. The ads tout it as being "from the producers of 'The Rookie,'" but you'd probably have made the connection anyway. Both stories are about schoolteachers who take a once-in-a-lifetime chance to try out for a professional sports team. It was baseball in "The Rookie," and in "Invincible," it is that burliest, manliest of sports, football. The film is set in Philadelphia (a burly, manly town) in 1976 (a burly, manly era -- just check out those mustaches). The economy is lousy, and so are the Philadelphia Eagles. Both factors are depressing to the men of South Philly, among them a just-fired, just-divorced man named Vince Papale (Mark Wahlberg). His buddy Max (Michael Rispoli) owns the neighborhood bar and lets Vince work a few hours there to stay afloat, serving drinks to and commiserating with his pals. The Eagles' new coach, Dick Vermeil (Greg Kinnear), a fresh-faced maverick from UCLA, sets up open tryouts as a publicity stunt. He doubts seriously that he'll find any worthwhile players by throwing open the gates to the local wannabes and former high school heroes, but at least it will get people excited about the Eagles again. Besides, who knows? Maybe there's a star out there, just waiting to be found. Vince Papale is that star, convinced by his buddies, with whom he plays vacant-lot football some evenings, that he's a natural. If you are a football fan, perhaps you already know the name of Vince Papale, which means you already know what happens when he goes to those tryouts. Of all the underdog-sports films in existence, this is one of the few to successfully re-create the spirit of "Rocky" (which I consider the gold standard), and not just because they're both set in Philadelphia in the mid-'70s. First-time writer Brad Gann and first-time director Ericson Core capture the moodiness of Vince's unemployment, the general low morale among his friends, the sheer loneliness, even with a team sport, of working out, training and preparing. There are even scenes of Vince jogging through Philadelphia, during which it is impossible not to think of the Italian Stallion. If you have any questions about this review please contact us at contact@ck-auctions.com Posted by CK-AuctionsRead full review
While most of the movies are depictions of what could actually happen, True to life stories are usually the best. I think everyone can relate to this one where a nobody with drive & ambition can attain a goal he really wants. Good acting, Makes you want to watch it from start to finish. Type of movie you can watch once a week & enjoy it every time. 5 Stars in my opinion
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I saw Invincible preview on another Disney DVD. Since I've enjoyed several of the Disney sports themed movies, I decided to give this one a spin, & bought it as a used DVD. ~~ This has a more character centered story line, rather than football action in it -- which I enjoyed. ~~ If you're a dedicated Eagles Fan, you'll enjoy the background story, but again, not that much in terms of the football (within the movie, only 1 game won!). ~~~ In retrospect, I thinking this is one I could have rented, rather than buy.
Invincible is the powerful and charming story of an ordinary fan turned profession athlete with the Philidelphia Eagles. Mark Whahlberg can do no wrong, especially in this role cast as Vince Papale. This is a movie of hard work, sarcifice, and struggle, but it doesn't dwell on those things. This movie is about how increadible things can happen to anyone with a dream and a little luck. You don't have to be a football fan to appriciate this movie, it's great for any audience. There's even enough romance to watch this on your next date.
Invincible Invincible is great, it's well acted and is an incredible true-story. Mark Wahlberg is great as Vince Papali and Greg Kinnear is superb as Coach Dick Vermeil. The movie itself is awesome. The movie not only features great football action, but also a look inside the life of an average Philadelphian circa 1976. I not only enjoyed every aspect of this movie. The fact that it's based on a true story makes it that much better. Walt Disney makes the best sports movies, and this film is no exception. Final Verdict: 5/5 Rent or Buy?: Sports or Football fan? This film is a must own. Just another great football movie to add to the collection. IF YOU FIND THIS REVIEW HELPFUL PLEASE REMEMBER TO VOTE. Thank you.
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