BLIND SIDE***

We have seen movies like Blind Side before; Remember the Titans, Coach Carter, Miracle…or have we? Blind Side is the true story of NFL football star Michael Oher’s difficult upbringing from foster care to foster care, his introduction to a mostly all white Christian School and his adoption by Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy.

To compare this movie to other dramatic sports movies is fine, but staring Sandra Bullock in the lead as adopted mom Leigh Anne Tuohy is putting this film in a whole new ball game. As Michael struggles to find his way through this world of rich folks and conservative surroundings, it’s not hard to predict what will happen as this movie evolves.

Leigh Anne is a tough talking, football mom with tenacity and strength in dialog alone. As she brings Michael into her home and under her wing, we see a young boy who jumped from inner city life to grow into a young man who is granted with privileges and opportunities. Not only is Michael cared for by Leigh Anne and her husband, but their also their young son SJ (Jae Head). The bond he creates with his big brother through football practices and video games is a pleasure to watch.

Usually when I review an Oscar movie I have a little more ambition in writing about a great movie. That doesn’t mean Blind Side isn’t great, it’s just not a movie that is Oscar worthy. I’ve added this review because Sandra Bullock will more than likely be nominated for best actress. I can’t agree with that nomination either, but I’m not part of the voting academy.

There is no denying that this is Bullock's best role to date. To see her in a dramatic role after so many comedies is refreshing. I enjoyed Bullocks performance in Crash and was excited she was taking on another serious role. A lot of critics are comparing her role in this movie, to Julia Roberts in Erin Brockovich, I can’t help but disagree more. The difference is, Erin Brockovich was a full package film from start to finish, with a strong story and great ensemble cast. Roberts took on Erin in hurricane force, Sandra’s Leigh Anne was a strong wind.

As for the rest of the cast; we see a solid ensemble all-around. Tim McGraw was believable as Sean Tuohy, although toward the end of the film when you see the real-life Tuohy’s ,you realize Tim does not resemble the real Sean at all. This was obviously a casting choice more about youthfulness. Quinton Aaron was perfect as Michael and Kathy Bates was a great addition as Miss Sue.

Like I said, Blind Side isn’t Oscar worthy and to be honest Sandra isn’t either. However, I can accept a nomination, but a win would be disappointing, when so many other actresses have had a phenomenal year.