Champions – Movie Review

Champions is a remake of the 2018 Spanish film Campeones.

Bobby Farrelly marks his solo directorial debut with “Champions,” a remake of the 2018 Spanish film of the same title. Notable for his collaborations with brother Peter on films like “Dumb and Dumber,” “Shallow Hal,” “Me, Myself and Irene,” and “There’s Something About Mary,” Farrelly assembles a cast featuring Woody Harrelson, Kaitlin Olson, Ernie Hudson, and Cheech Marin.

Synopsis

The plot centers around a former minor-league basketball coach. He is compelled by court order to oversee a team of players with intellectual disabilities. Through a sequence of missteps, he discovers the potential of this unconventional team, realizing they can achieve more than initially thought.

While “Champions” adheres to the conventions of the inspirational sports movie genre, the rarity of such films amidst the influx of major blockbusters, superhero flicks, and sequels offers a refreshing departure. Drawing on a true story, the film evokes emotional resonance. The youthful and talented ensemble drives the narrative, complemented by the delightful chemistry between love interests Woody Harrelson and Kaitlin Olson, forming a compelling comedic duo. However, the film’s drawback lies in its 2-hour runtime; judicious editing could have enhanced the overall impact, allowing for a more substantial focus on the supporting cast, the unsung heroes of the production.

Verdict

I give Champions 3.5 out of 5 stars. It stands as a feel-good movie with ample laughs. The heartfelt sports flick has each cast member shining. However, the supporting actors could have been better served with a more balanced portrayal. Read more Reviews on Nerdtropolis and Subscribe to our YouTube.