American Underdog

The talented (if perhaps slightly too old) stars elevate this biopic from the story of a single player's almost unbelievable journey to a touching love story about overcoming unthinkable hardships. This sports drama celebrates the human interest in a true underdog -- a little-known Midwestern college player who defies the odds (age, collegiate pedigree, and personal tragedies) to become an NFL Hall of Famer. And as the movie tells it, there would be no Kurt Warner without Brenda's support. Their marriage is so integral to his story that it's reminiscent of the way Julia and Paul Child are depicted in Julie & Julia or how Abigail and John Adams are portrayed by historians. Despite no longer looking like they're in their early 20s, Levi and Paquin share an emotional and romantic chemistry that will make audiences feel invested in their relationship -- particularly because of how seamlessly Kurt starts to care for Zack (little sister Jesse doesn't get nearly as much screen time).

Various coaches and teammates have an impact on Kurt, but the ones who really stand out are Arena Football coach Jim Foster (Bruce McGill), who offers a touchdown bonus and encourages Kurt to make decisions and movements faster; gentle Rams head coach Dick Vermeil (Dennis Quaid), who gives generous pep talks; and offensive line head coach Mike Martz (Chance Kelly), whose critical approach is effective, if occasionally cruel. Although American Underdog isn't as obvious a contemporary Christian movie as the Erwin Brothers' previous films, the Warners' faith is fully on display, with various conversations and prayers asserting its importance in their lives. The filmmakers wisely focus on Warner's remarkable path from college to the his success as a pro without meandering into his entire professional (or even personal) life. For example, it's only explained in the end that the Warners went on to have five more children together. The Erwins are specifically taken with the early years of Kurt's instant family once he connects with Brenda and the kids, and, as a story of keeping the faith -- in each other, God, and the game -- it proves to be an inspiring and surprisingly unpredictable one.