Movies Reviews

Old coach learns new lesson in ‘Champions’

Image from the film's official Facebook page.

Albany, Oregon, U.S.A. – Released in theaters early this year, Champions – directed by Bobby Farrelly – is a remake of the 2018 Spanish film of the same title, “Campeones.”

This film – praised by disabled viewers as well those from outside that community – marked a big break for a lot of the disabled actors who star in the movie.

It features actor Woody Harrelson, who portrays arrogant and brash former minor league basketball coach Marcus Marakovi.

After multiple mishaps, the coach is court-ordered to lead a team of intellectually disabled individuals called “The Friends” for 90 days.

He quickly learns the true meaning of being a champion and realizes that the team can go farther than they ever imagined.

This movie covered a lot of things that disabled people face every day – being underestimated, feeling the need to stay with family because you feel that they could not handle you being gone and having to forge your past into strength.

The creators made the film appeal to a broad audience, resulting in a completely inclusive movie for everyone.

Champions marked a huge milestone for disability representation within film.

Hopefully, this brings about more wonderful and inclusive projects.

To actors Madison Tevlin, Kevin Iannucci, Casey Metcalfe, James Day Keith, Joshua Felder and other disabled people who acted in Champions, you all did absolutely fantastic.

This film is a definite must-see.

McKenzie Andersen is a Reporter with Youth Journalism International.

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