Undefeated: Film Review [Excerpt]

Undefeated, a 2011 Academy Award-winning documentary film directed by independent documentary filmmakers Daniel Lindsay and T.J. Martin documents the Tigers, a Memphis Tennessee Manassas High School football team that navigates through a season of obstacles and emotions both on and off the field. The doc reveals an intimate view of the journey of the team and their determination to win, not only as a football team but in life.

A deplorable reputation was attained from numerous seasons of consecutive losses. The Tiger’s head coach, Bill Courtney, and his assistant coaches' worked together with the team through their many ups and downs. In particular, three young men: Chavis, Money, and O.C., are all on their way to achieving monumental greatness or tremendous insignificance depending on the hurdle placed before them.

Undefeated does a great job of capturing these similarities of conquering challenges within the game while overcoming everyday obstacles. Intensely felt and slowly paced, with its pivotal action sequences. Visually thrilling to witness scene by scene the struggle of defeat and vigor to succeed when playing against their rival teams. The filmmakers carefully unveil a real-life story of Manassas and its people. Their drive to prevail where in the past they have often failed. 

When watching this powerful documentary, you slowly become a part of a heartfelt connection among the students of Manassas, their coaches, and their teachers. Not only is this more than just a simple game of football for students Chavis, Money, and O.C. Instead more of a significant opportunity to remove themselves from unfortunate circumstances by utilizing their passion for the sport, talents, and quality education to achieve the impossible. –J.R. Randle