Get our recommendations directly on
A portrait of an Alabama high school wrestling team springboards from a sports documentary into an encompassing exploration of the American working class and institutional racism. The film operates on both levels as it zooms in on the lives of four students and their friendly yet overbearing coach. From the opening moments, Coach Sribner makes it clear that the State Championship is about much more than sport. A failing and underfunded school system all but ensures that a sports scholarship is one of the few chances for these youth to have access to higher education and a path out of poverty.
This is further exacerbated by the racial dynamics at play, as we watch these mostly Black youth experience casual racism as well as institutional harassment from the police. Even their well-meaning coach is not exempt, he at once can acknowledge his white privilege but is not above baselessly accusing one of the boys of stealing his sunglasses. Herbert’s up close and personal style is immersive and passionate and builds to an exciting sports film climax while maintaining a piercing awareness of the severe economic realities that hollow out any victory on the mat.
What did you think? Who should watch it?
© 2022 agoodmovietowatch, all rights reserved. While we migrate to our new design, all premium content and features are temporarily available to all users. Contact us if you have any feedback or questions.
We are home to the best movie and TV show suggestions across streaming
platforms and across over 20 countries.
Netflix, Amazon, Amazon Prime, and Hulu are trademarked brands,
all rights reserved.
We don't have any affiliation with Netflix or any other VOD providers.
All images, names, and trademarks are copyright and
the property of their respective owners.