“Invincible”
Directed by: Ericson Core. Written by: Brad Gann. Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Greg Kinnear, Elizabeth Banks.
It would be easy to dismiss “Invincible” as just another sports film. After all, it’s an uplifting story of an ordinary man defying odds and following his dreams. While it does follow the sports film formula, it’s also an original, true story that’s a lot of fun to watch.
Ordinary man Vince Papale (Wahlberg) attends an open tryout for the Philadelphia Eagles. The film deals with what Vince is up against, not only on the field, but in his personal life as well. His wife of five years leaves him early on in the film, he loses his substitute teaching job, and the entire film is set against the backdrop of an industrial city in its downfall- union striking and unemployment are everywhere. Papale is up against such obstacles it almost seems too much, too unbelievable.
In addition to his personal troubles, Papale struggles on the field. After making it through the tryouts, Papale still has to prove he’s worthy to make the team. That means holding his own against players much younger, stronger and more experienced than he is.
The cast of characters that play Vince’s oldest and closest friends help shape that era and that feeling of hopelessness. Vince’s progress inspires them, as well as a city in desperate need for inspiration.
Greg Kinnear is Dick Vermeil, the first year coach of the Philadelphia Eagles. He comes to the NFL from college football and it’s his decision to hold open tryouts. He doesn’t expect to find anyone; he just wants to re-energize the city’s interest in the team. It’s not surprising Vermeil sticks up for Papale for so long. Vermeil and Papale’s stories parallel each other. They’re both putting themselves out there and struggling for success.
So, I guess “Invincible” is just another sports film. Perhaps it is a bit clichéd- the against-all-odds character rises to the top. But that type of film, in all its many versions, will always find an audience- especially when it’s based on a real person with a fascinating story.
Story: B
Acting: A-
Visuals: B-
Originality: C+
Enjoyability: A
Overall: B+
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