Champions : a touching and human sports comedy
Unprecedented in French cinema, Champions is a comedy drama that follows Mark (Woody Harrelson), a basketball coach with a difficult and impulsive temperament. After an altercation on the court, he is sentenced to social services and is forced to coach a basketball team made up of players with mental disabilities.
Initially reluctant, Marcus gradually discovers the wealth and talent of his team, called The Friends. As the story progresses, the surly coach moves from skepticism to deep personal involvement, and realizes that the values of sport go far beyond competition.
Directed by Bobby Farrellyco-creator of numerous cult comedies (Maria at all costs, Dumb and dumber), the film surprises with its funny and at the same time affectionate tone, far from the caricatures often associated with the genre. Highlights non-professional actorswith mental disabilities, bringing a rare authenticity to the screen.
Woody Harrelson offers a sincere performance here, showing the progressive evolution of a man seeking redemption. The performance is supported by an engaging supporting cast, making each character memorable.
In the same way as Something more
The theme of Champions which is currently the third most watched film on Netflix France, immediately invokes the craze around Something morea French comedy directed by Artus, which also addressed mental disability with humor and kindness. The two films have many points in common which explain why they are aimed at the same audience.
First of all, the positive and sincere representation of disability is at the center of both stories. Instead of exploiting the topic in a caricatured way, Champions AND Something more enhance people with disabilities in key roles, with dignity and authenticity. The characters are funny, touching and never reduced to their condition.
After, gentle and familiar humor is another point of convergence. Both films use comedy as a vehicle to raise awareness, but without ever falling into pathos. Humor serves to dispel clichés and demonstrate that difference can be a strength.
Finally, messages of solidarity and mutual help dominate in both works. Champions AND Something more promote team spirit, overcoming oneself and the importance of the caring gaze of others. These universal themes resonate strongly with general audiences, creating stories that are both inspiring and accessible.
Source: Cine Serie
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