The Boys in the Boat (and a note from The Blogger)

Courtesy of Wikipedia 

"The Boys in the Boat" is a cinematic journey that plunges viewers into the heart of resilience, camaraderie, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Directed by George Clooney and adapted from Daniel James Brown's best-selling book of the same name, the film brings to life the remarkable true story of the University of Washington's rowing team and their quest for gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics.

The film opens against the backdrop of the Great Depression, painting a vivid picture of the harsh realities faced by young protagonist Joe Rantz, brilliantly portrayed by a rising star in the making. Strapped for cash, Rantz tries out for crew, scrounging funds for college.  The audience is immediately drawn into Joe's world—a world of economic hardship, personal loss, and unwavering determination. But, it's a common plot Hollywood has produced since the evolution of "Rocky." To that point, the film can't escape that whirlpool of the underdog story. Instead, it leans into it, perhaps hoping to chart its course as the boys paddle to victory. 

"The Boys in the Boat" made its maiden voyage this past Christmas Day - the hallmark of either big-budget or feel-good flicks. For those of you who know me personally, you probably know that I am a rower (as well as my dad), so this film struck a chord. Rowing has been my pastime for over a decade, through which I have learned the do's and don't's while honing technique. So, when the actors got into their octuple-sculling shell for the first time, I cringed at their mechanical pulls on their ores. Turn-off Numero Uno for me. Yet, the actors made pretty convincing performances elsewhere on the screen, so I stayed and watched with reluctance. 

Joe's transformation from a resilient yet uncertain young man to a fierce and determined oarsman is a testament to the actor's depth and commitment to the role. The camaraderie among the rowers, each with their unique stories and struggles, is palpable and adds emotional depth to the narrative. The ensemble's chemistry feels authentic, drawing viewers deeper into their shared journey. However, the moment when I felt fully invested in the characters' goal of competing in the Olympics had not come. 

Rowing is all about finesse and agility. George Clooney's directorial finesse shines through in every frame. The meticulous attention to detail in capturing the rowing sequences is nothing short of breathtaking. The cinematography beautifully juxtaposes the tranquility of the water with the intensity of the sport, immersing the audience in the sheer physicality and precision required in competitive rowing. However, the film's agility - its ability to cruise seamlessly through each scene - was a little rough. Following the underdog trend of "Rocky," "Invincible," and "McFarland USA," the storyline floated between the shores of dating women and proving greatness comes from within.  

The film's narrative is a testament to the power of the human spirit. It seamlessly weaves together personal struggles, triumphs, and the pursuit of a collective dream. The storytelling is gripping, evoking a range of emotions—from heart-wrenching moments of despair to triumphant instances of sheer perseverance. The script navigates the complexities of the era, highlighting the socio-political backdrop without overshadowing the central theme of resilience and determination. But recruiting a group of no-name actors who crewed under Joel Edgerton's Coach Al Ulbrickson Sr. made the movie feel unsteady and lopsided. 

And, gah, the music! The musical score serves as an emotive backdrop to the film, enhancing pivotal moments and evoking a sense of nostalgia. The sound design during the rowing sequences amplifies the intensity, immersing viewers in the rhythmic symphony of oars slicing through water. At the end of the day, it only added to the film's gooey cheesiness. It's behind Ferrari, but there's still hope that "The Boys in the Boat" can surge past the racing gangster. 

While artistic liberties are taken for cinematic purposes, the film stays true to the essence of the real events. The attention to historical accuracy, from the portrayal of the era's societal challenges to the depiction of the rowing techniques, adds credibility and authenticity to the storytelling. The novel on which the film is based, offers a deeper perspective on Rance, detailing his childhood, establishing an emotional connection with the reader. Yet, none of Rance's tough, gritty, impoverished life made the final cut. Leaving this entire struggling childhood aspect out, Clooney and the editors are doing a disservice to the story. It would have made the film adaptation so much better if they had revealed Rance's life (as well as the others') before their impeccable athletic careers. Come on, Clooney! 

"Boys in the Boat" is more than a sports drama—it's a testament to the indomitable human spirit, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence against all odds. It resonates on a universal level, inspiring viewers to embrace resilience, determination, and the power of camaraderie in overcoming obstacles. Yet, it falls short of painting the whole picture, instead zeroing in on the Olympics as the sole purpose. I mean, this isn't his first rodeo, and he has been involved in several blockbusters and a few flops. Surely, the 62-year-old would know how to make a great film. But, alas! According to Entertainment Weekly, Clooney admits that audiences may have been shortchanged due to complications that were out of his control while filming. 

"The first day on the water. I was like, what was I thinking? The wind is blowing all the boats in different directions, our boat can’t get near the other boats, or we capsize it. We trained [the actors], and they’re doing a great job, but even a professional rower can row maybe two hours, and we’re going to be out there for eight hours. There was nothing but challenges but it was mostly about my stupidity more than anything."

Okay, maybe I'll let it slide this time, Clooney. I still think you should have cast boys who know how to row, at least. Overall, "Boys in the Boat" is a cinematic endeavor that navigates the waters of triumph, adversity, and the pursuit of the extraordinary. With a captivating,  compelling narrative, this film is a must-watch for enthusiasts of sports dramas and anyone seeking an inspirational story that transcends the boundaries of time. As the credits roll, the echoes of the rowers' determination linger, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of viewers—a poignant reminder that greatness is often forged in the crucible of adversity. It's worth watching. Or just read the book. 

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Dear friends, 

I want to address a brief note that Kev's Reviews will be undergoing a transformation of sorts in the next few weeks. I will be searching for a different platform. While Blogger is great for an amateur and has suited me well for over a decade, I have found its limitations and have decided to relocate to create a better blog. 

Please bear with me while I shop around the Internet. 

For now, please enjoy my review of "The Boys in the Boat."