John Lee Hancock via his writing and directorial skills brought to life the adaptation of Michael Lewis’ “The Blind Side: Evolution Of A Game” by creating an inspirational film on the formation of an unlikely bond between two people from opposite walks of life.
The feature walks us thru the life of homeless African American teen, Michael Oher, provided with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reach his dreams through his skills and experience the luxuries of a life he never thought he had. Barely educated, he hardly speaks nor reads but by possessing great potential in football, he finds his way to Tony Memphis private school. By turn of fate, he crosses path with Leigh Anne Tuohy’s (Sandra Bullock) family through her daughter. Believing in his talents bound to be great in the future, the family takes him under their wing paving for him the way to a successful football career. In the arms of the well-off family of interior designer Leigh Ann and her fastfood mogul husband (Tim McGraw), Michael experiences both the nurturing of a wealthy life and the class discrimination of the high-end society. Guiding him to his future as a great All-American pro football star is his kind tutor (Kathy Bates).
“The Blind Side” offers audience the opportunity to check the present racial and political issues plaguing today’s society particularly on the contemporary South. Hancock successfully creates a film shed naked to its emotional core that would both move lives and leave lasting impressions in the long-run.
The film’s firm foundation was actress Sandra Bullock who delivered the performance of her life to the levels of “Erin Brockovich”. Matched with a believable accent and shaded golden tresses Bullock delivers her character with determination and conviction worthy of an award. Aiding her well is Hancock’s beautifully crafted script gifting her with stand-out moments she stepped up to deliver.
Newcomer Quintin Aaron taking the role of lead Michael stands out on his own with his convincing performance set to drive viewers to sympathize with the character’s inner feelings exposed skilfully by the actor. His interpretation adds an air of vulnerability, self-awareness, and resilience to Michael’s personality.
Technical aspects of the film deserve an A courtesy of Alar Kivilo’s cinematography skilfully substituting the supposed Memphis setting with an Atlanta location. Daniel Orlandi’s crafty costumes allowed Bullock to embrace devotedly her well-off role.
