American Underdog (Blu-ray) review

[David Vaughn]

Studio: Lionsgate
Release Date: February 22, 2022
Rating: PG
Film: 4.5/5
 
Plot
The inspirational true story of Kurt Warner (Zachary Levi), who went from a stockboy at a grocery store to a two-time NFL MVP, Super Bowl champion, and Hall of Fame quarterback. The film centers on Warner’s unique story and years of challenges and setbacks that could have derailed his aspirations to become an NFL player – but just when his dreams seemed all but out of reach, it is only with the support of his wife, Brenda (Anna Paquin) and the encouragement of his family, coaches, and teammates that Warner perseveres and finds the strength to show the world the champion that he already is. American Underdog is an uplifting story that demonstrates that anything is possible when you have faith, family and determination.
 
My Thoughts
I can’t believe we have two sports biopics in the same month. First King Richard and now this. Both are excellent in their own ways, but I think I like this one a little bit more. First and foremost, I’m a diehard NFL watcher—especially the San Francisco 49ers. Second, Kurt Warner is one of the nicest human beings on the planet and this film does a very good job of portraying his struggles from a small D2 college to become the greatest undrafted football player in NFL history.
 
The casting is excellent with Zachary Levi playing Warner and Anna Paquin starring as his wife, Brenda. As good as those well-known actors are, newcomer Hayden Zaller is simply amazing as he plays Brenda’s blind son, Zach. This is his first acting job, and you’d never know it—his performance is genuine and emotionally stirring. In fact, have a box of tissues around because tears will be shed.
 
Overall the A/V performance doesn’t detract from the inspiring story, which is all you could ask for.
      
Video 4/5 (AVC)
 
 Audio 4/5 (Dolby Atmos)
 
Special Features:
 

• Audio Commentary with Directors Andrew and Jon Erwin, and Producer Kevin Downes
• “Inspired”
• “Making the Cut”
• “A Coach’s Faith”
• “New to the Scene: Hayden Zaller”
• “Behind the Game”
• “American Underdog: Behind the Story”
• Deleted Scenes
• Theatrical Trailer
• Blu-ray + Digital Copy

 

 
 
Conclusion
So far 2022 has turned out to be a pretty good year for day-and-date releases on both Blu-ray and UHD. This may be the best movie I’ve seen in a while and it’s inspirational and very emotionally moving. My wife isn’t a football fan in the slightest and was still very entertained and moved by the film, so don’t let the sports aspect of the story turn you away if you aren’t a fan. Highly recommended.
 
Reference Review System:
JVC DLA-RS2000 4K Ultra High-Definition Front Projector
(Calibrated with Portrait Displays CalMAN color calibration software & C6-HDR Meter from Portrait Displays)
Stewart Filmscreen - Firehawk 88” 16x9 Fixed Screen
Trinnov Altitude 16 Audio/Video Processor
ATI AT527NC Powering Bed Channels
ATI AT524NC Powering Atmos Speakers
Panasonic DP-UB820 Ultra HD Blu-ray Player
System Controller: URC MX-990
M&K S-150 THX Ultra (R-C-L Speakers)
M&K SS-150 x4 (Surround Speakers)
Atlantic Technology IC6-OBA x 4 Overhead Speakers
SVS PC-Ultra Cylinder Subwoofer
HSU VTF-15H MK2 Subwoofer
SVS SB-3000 Subwoofer
JL Audio Dominion F110 Subwoofer x 2
Mini DSP HD controlling all subwoofers
Audioquest and Monoprice - Audio/Video/Speaker Cabling
PureAV PF60 Power Conditioner

[bmoney]

This didn’t come in 4K? Either way. Never heard of it. But now you guessed it. I’ll be watching

Thanks for the review!

[David Vaughn]

This didn’t come in 4K? Either way. Never heard of it. But now you guessed it. I’ll be watching

Thanks for the review!

There's a 4K version but it wasn't sent for review.

[Ralph P.]

Greetings,

Spot on Dave. I just posted my review and we agree across the board buddy...


Regards,

[David Vaughn]

Greetings,

Spot on Dave. I just posted my review and we agree across the board buddy...


Regards,

Thanks for chiming in Ralph. This is a winner for sure!

[bmoney]

Just watched this. Fantastic movie.

Also you weren’t kidding about the tears being shed. Sheesh 

[David Vaughn]

Just watched this. Fantastic movie.

Also you weren’t kidding about the tears being shed. Sheesh

I tried to warn you

And yes, it's a fantastic and uplifting movie.