The Blind Side: The Gift of Family

Usually at the end of a movie when the credits roll, there’s a mad rush for the door. Yet, at the end of The Blind Side, as the credits rolled, intertwined with pictures of the real Michael Oher and Tuohy family, not a single person moved and sniffling could be heard all around. This was the perfect way to bring this poignant movie to a close, with a glimpse of those who made up this inspiring true story. The Blind Side is one of the best movies of the year!

Michael Oher had a remarkably tough childhood in a rundown section of Memphis, TN. “Big Mike,” who really didn’t like the nickname, had to learn how to fend for himself. His mother was addicted to drugs, frequently evicted and he never really knew his father. He attended school sporadically and had a GPA of 0.6. With help from a friend’s father, highlighting his potential athletic ability, Michael is enrolled in Wingate Christian High School, a private school in the affluent part of town. It is not an instant success…he struggled with the schoolwork, didn’t make friends easily and was pretty much homeless.

One cold November night, the Tuohys were leaving the school play when they see Michael dressed in shorts and a t-shirt, carrying his belongings in a small plastic bag. Despite knowing little about him, Leigh Anne convinces Michael to stay at their house for the night. The one night extends to another and another and he naturally becomes a part of their family. The Tuohys provide Michael with many things that he’d never had before: new clothing, a bedroom with his first bed, a support system and unconditional love. With their care and attention, Michael’s grades improve enough for him to go out for football. Despite his size and athleticism, he had never played football before and it was a rough start. After some help from Leigh Anne and S.J., the Tuohy’s younger son, Michael quickly becomes a talented offensive lineman, with college coaches desperately recruiting him. The movie follows his journey with the Tuohy’s, his path to college at Old Miss and beyond.

The cast was superb! This was not a typical role for Sandra Bullock but she tackled it brilliantly. Bullock deserves Oscar recognition for her portrayal of Leigh Anne Tuohy as the Southern no-nonsense, outspoken, and caring mother. Tim McGraw (Sean Tuohy) was the perfect, laid-back match for the feisty Leigh Anne. Quinton Aaron, in his breakout lead role as Michael, was fantastic! He played the shy and introspective Michael to a T. Also, his size made him extremely believable as the 6’4, 310 lb Oher. Look for Jae Head (S.J.) and Lily Collins (Collins Tuohy) in many more roles! Head as the precocious younger brother had me constantly laughing! Kathy Bates as Ms. Sue, Michael’s tutor, also had a strong supporting role in the film. The cameo appearances of college coaches were a bit corny.

The Blind Side is not just a sports movie, though the football scenes are a plus…there’s much more to it. It is about family, trust and courage. Michael quickly became a beloved son and devoted brother. The fact that Michael is gifted athletically and plays football is an added bonus. It is an incredible story and reminds us to believe in family, commitment, devotion and love.

There were many heart-warming and funny scenes throughout the movie. I (as well as other movie goers) would laugh and cry and then repeat the whole process again. Some of my favorite parts of the movie include Leigh Anne and Michael bonding while shopping; Leigh Anne reading classic stories, like Ferdinand, to Michael, S.J. and Collins; S.J. training with Mike throughout the summer and explaining plays with the help of condiments.

Although college and pro football games are always on in my house, on Sunday, I made a special point to watch the Baltimore Ravens play the Indianapolis Colts to see Michael, Ravens rookie, #74. I enjoyed seeing him in action and wish him all the best in the NFL and life. I can’t recommend this movie enough! This holiday season give yourself a gift and go see this outstanding movie!

Want to read more Poptimal reviews of The Blind Side, check out Renata Sellitti’s article The Blind Side: Cinematic Touchdown