The other day, I got to see an early screening of Bobby Farrelly’s new film, Champions, starring Woody Harrelson. What did I think?
When aspiring NBA coach Marcus (Harrelson) ends up on the wrong end of the law, he agrees to do 90 days community service in order to avoid jail, coaching a group of basketball players (called ‘The Friends’) with intellectual disabilities who have hopes of competing in the Special Olympics.
Let’s be clear, Champions is about as cliché as they come, following the formula you would expect for a film like this beat by beat, so don’t go in expecting anything game-changing. It’s one of those films that is very familiar and predictable, you’ll likely have an accurate picture of where things will end up early on in the film.
However, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, and the important part here is how fun the journey is. I’m happy to report that Champions is a perfect feel-good movie. It’s filled with plenty of heart, it’s very funny, and I would be shocked if it doesn’t put a smile on your face. Woody Harrelson is, as always, an excellent lead, and the chemistry he has with ‘The Friends’ is heart-warming. All of characters that make up ‘The Friends’ are charming, very loveable and help to elevate the message that we are all capable of great things with the right mindset. It delivers a poignant reminder that our differences should be celebrated, not ridiculed.
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing, easy to watch film that’s going to make you happy, then I highly recommend Champions. I had a great time and I’m sure you will too!
I give Champions a 7/10.
Wado Reviews 