| A 59 Year Old Rudy | ||
| The Senior | ||
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| Review by Ross Anthony | ||
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The film takes more than a few minutes to find its rhythm. But then, yes, as an old guy, I dig seeing an old guy taking this really courageous life-changing risk to resolve decades-old internal struggles. However, I wanted to see the whole story. I wanted to see what it was like for a 59 year old to sit in the classroom with teenagers. What were his interactions with teachers like? How did he do in his classes? There are literally no classroom scenes in this "going back to college" film. Did he graduate with his class? We don't get to know. Thankfully, we were included in on family discussions which mostly didn't go so smoothly for Mike. As an aside, a marvelous film about an old guy (84 year old) going back to school is The First Grader. As you've likely already read, Michael Chiklis delivers a strong performance, but honestly, I think the best actor on set is Brandon Flynn as Mike Flynt's late twenty's son. It's a tough role, showing remnants of love and respect toward his father, but just coming of the age where he's not going to take Dad's crap anymore. Flynn (as Mika Flynt) rebukes his father with restraint, honesty, and an impressive bout of self-respect. The film uses flashbacks very effectively to tell the back story. The on-field football shots are strong and there are a few moments that will choke you up. In fact, two young women next to us were noticeably sobbing. I'm a sucker for films that show us that we can all be better people. So... Thank you, Mike. I hope "The Senior" inspires people of all ages to dig deeper on the heart level. As for the director, Rod Lurie. He was the very first filmmaker I interviewed - a quarter of a century ago. You can read that interview here.. And Rod, if you're reading this. Contact me. I've got an idea. |
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Grade..........................B+ (2.5/4) |
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Copyright © 1998-2025 Ross Anthony, Author - Speaker - Solo World Circumnavigator In addition to reviewing films and interviewing celebs at HollywoodReportCard.com, traveling the world, composing great music, motivational speaking, Mr. Anthony also helps others tell their stories with words and video. While traversing the circumference of the planet writing books, Mr. Anthony has taught, presented for, worked &/or played with locals in over 30 countries & 100 cities (Nairobi to Nagasaki). He's bungee-jumped from a bridge near Victoria Falls, wrestled with lions in Zimbabwe, crashed a Vespa off a high mountain road in Taiwan, and ridden a dirt bike across the States (Washington State to Washington DC). To get signed books, thoughtful experienced help telling your stories through words or video, or to schedule Ross to speak check out: www.RossAnthony.com or call 1-800-767-7186.
Dig into the world and inspire the people you meet with your love, kindness, and whatever it is you're really good at. Being alive is the miracle. Special thanks to Ken Kocanda, HAL, Jodie Keszek, Don Haderlein, Mom and Pops, my family, R. Foss, and many others by Ross Anthony. Galati-FE also deserves a shout out. And thanks to all of you for your interest and optimism. Enjoy great films, read stirring novels, grow. |
Last Modified:
Saturday, 20-Sep-2025 10:09:17 PDT