First of all I would like to say that I like these types of stories so I am a bit bias. It's the story about, in this case a man, who is not satisfied with his life or at least so he thinks and who gets an opportunity to do it all over again. In this case it deals with a man who had a promising future as a footballplayer but whose leg gets injured in the finale game of the season that ended that prospect. Now he is farming soybeans and things don't go as planned. As I stated a familiar story with an ending that will not surprise the seasoned moviegoer. Never the less it's a really nice movie to watch it never gets too touchy feely and stuff, it has some nice humor in it and the acting goes from oke to good. Seeing Kurt Russel play in a movie is never a bad thing also I have to admit. I consider him a fantastic actor. In fact I think this movie would have been better if he had played the older character instead of the coach because Brian Presley does not have the looks of neither a high school student nor that of a father of 2 kids. Don't get me wrong he does not do a bad job I am just not buying it thats all but that is just my personal opinion. In all a nice movie without any real surprises but if you like feel good movies then this one should give you that feeling. I surely felt it. To sum up, not truly original, nice acting and it leaves you with a warm feeling inside, all in all not a bad effort. 6/10 from me.
63 Reviews
Seriously underrated movie
arbarg25 August 2012
My friends tell me I rely too much on IMDb ratings to determine whether a movie is worth watching. Normally I don't bother with anything under a 6.5-ish rating but in a weak moment I decided to watch this anyway (which at the time of writing this review was rated 5.7). I'm usually in agreement with the other voters; but the masses are way off on this one. Touchback is a great movie addressing themes that Hollywood doesn't advocate very often: Seeing purpose in your life, satisfaction with what you have, leaving regrets in the past, second chances, personal reflection, and a reminder that no matter how bleak things appear in a given moment, there are family, friends, and community who care about you.
Yes, there are some cheesy spots, and a few instances of questionable acting, not to mention the high school students/athletes look over 30! But if you can get past the minor flaws, and look to the powerful themes in this movie you will not be disappointed.
Touchback isn't epic (nor does it try to be), but it's certainly not a 5.7! I'd give it a solid 7.5/10. Touchback left me wondering how many other underrated movies I've missed!
Yes, there are some cheesy spots, and a few instances of questionable acting, not to mention the high school students/athletes look over 30! But if you can get past the minor flaws, and look to the powerful themes in this movie you will not be disappointed.
Touchback isn't epic (nor does it try to be), but it's certainly not a 5.7! I'd give it a solid 7.5/10. Touchback left me wondering how many other underrated movies I've missed!
first didn't want to see it, but turns out to be great!
futureknight-117 September 2012
I saw the rating of 5.something and I usually only watch what is 7 or higher with at least 3000 votes. Since I played American football in Switzerland I thought i had to give it a try.
Great movie! I don't understand why this is so badly rated. Of course there are some cheesy scenes, but what really took me in was the meaning of the whole movie. I can't believe I have to watch hundreds of non sense movies until I find something like this.
Take some time to watch this movie and think again about your life! There is a great study guide on their website.
Also nice to watch with your girlfriend/wife.
Hope you will like it too! Many thanks for making this movie!
Great movie! I don't understand why this is so badly rated. Of course there are some cheesy scenes, but what really took me in was the meaning of the whole movie. I can't believe I have to watch hundreds of non sense movies until I find something like this.
Take some time to watch this movie and think again about your life! There is a great study guide on their website.
Also nice to watch with your girlfriend/wife.
Hope you will like it too! Many thanks for making this movie!
Works for me all in all a keeper
Clarks513 October 2011
Mild twists and a touch of Sci-Fi to keep you involved. More important is the off field story. Much more than anything. Apart from The on field twist near the end that I wasn't ready for the off field story is enough to keep you hoping for a magical change. But the reality is enough to make you say 'yes!' at the end.
Very earthy performances from the leads. Believable in every situation. Scott is well cast as an unassuming star,. Kurt Russell adds pulling power to the credits and has not been cast without reference to his ability to play characters we can all relate to.
Scott Murphy's character mirrors the perennially struggling farmers in not only USA but here in my home as well. He portrays admirably the shielded turmoil of men of the land fighting bad turns daily and then gritting , bearing and getting on with the job until all seems lost. Never allow this to impact his optimistic outlook for his children.
Truly credible performance.
Very earthy performances from the leads. Believable in every situation. Scott is well cast as an unassuming star,. Kurt Russell adds pulling power to the credits and has not been cast without reference to his ability to play characters we can all relate to.
Scott Murphy's character mirrors the perennially struggling farmers in not only USA but here in my home as well. He portrays admirably the shielded turmoil of men of the land fighting bad turns daily and then gritting , bearing and getting on with the job until all seems lost. Never allow this to impact his optimistic outlook for his children.
Truly credible performance.
starts slow gets better
katy-247-15811331 December 2011
Warning: Spoilers
It was a slow to get going movie, until an unusual twist about a third of the way in makes it get much better. Kurt Russell as always plays his part well. The part I can't understand with this movie, is that with an opportunity to change things, he didn't change much leaving everything the same except for throw a pass to a player who had never caught one? but I guess that is why I don't write these movies. I never could understand why a high school football player places those memories as the biggest or most important of their life. I am kind of thinking big deal and who cares about these football days, but it does make for a decent movie, and it is unlike any of the others based on similar ideas. Not a must see but not a waste of time either. Worth watching.
My Life Isn't So Bad
rdg4517 July 2020
A cheesy and predictable but heartwarming theme that you've seen before in similar films. The hero high school athlete goes "back" to high school to realize that his marriage and "present-day" life isn't as bad as he thought it was.
Imagine all the people..living life in beans....
shiannedog8 March 2021
I didn't know what to expect from this movie, but it had Kurt Russell in a coaching role so that grabbed me and it didn't disappoint. The casting was perfect and the screen play was great as well as the acting. Contentment is kind of hard to come by in life so a movie like this can be a welcome reminder. I appreciate movies without profanity especially when it's made to be uplifting. Life is hard, but it's also wonderful. Movies like this remind us of that. Thank you
touch back for a first
user-485-771089 October 2012
I thought touch back was a good movie. do go see this movie It's not that bad so if you're planning to go to the movies go see this one. I thought the ending was heart taking and very sad/happy. I was happy to see the ending I thought it was very good.I would think This movie is for an audience that is a fan of athletics and likes football.I strongly Recommend this movie.its not a bad movie because the main part takes place in a small place were everybody grows corn to make money.theirs nothing wrong with this movie its just a great movie and its PG-13 so you can bring your kids with you to go see this movie. please go see this movie.
Emotional experience
pennaffleck11 April 2012
I wasn't at all turned on by the trailer, but went with my wife to a screening here near Cleveland because it was free and I will see anything football. My wife was less enthusiastic about seeing it, but came because she wants me to see Lucky One with her next week and that was part of the deal. By the end of the movie, she was bawling. She loved it. Honestly, this movie was more for her than me, but it made us both think about life and we had a pretty amazing conversation on the way home.
All in all, I am giving it a nine because she thought it was a ten and I thought it was around an eight. It's a great date movie, if you go, take your wife or girlfriend.
All in all, I am giving it a nine because she thought it was a ten and I thought it was around an eight. It's a great date movie, if you go, take your wife or girlfriend.
Time-Travel-ish Drama, works well...
Protecious25 August 2012
Obviously anything featuring Kurt Russell will be watched by me, this film's light advertising makes this film look like yet another football game movie, although it does have a lot to do with football, it's best feature is the small town feel of the film, which was very well done and accurate to my liking, the story is nothing new, a man unhappy with his life, wonders how things would have been differently had he not had a career ending injury to his leg, kind of reminded me little bit of Mr. Destiny, but this film holds its own with the drama featured, it's not really science fiction although there is an aspect of time travel to the film, I liked the setup and the payoffs, the relationships between the main character and his coach (Kurt Russell) who is like a father figure to him, and of course the love relationship between who he ends up with in real life and who he may have ended up with had he not suffered the injury. don't judge a book by its cover, I was expecting a certain film starting off, and what i got was very entertaining and heartwarming. I wouldn't say the film is perfect but I admit I enjoyed "Touchback".
Amazing
howler1928 November 2011
Not a lot of people have seen this wonderful movie yet, which is why I feel like it is my obligation to tell those of you who have not, that you definitely should.
Growing up in Sweden I guess there are people that know a lot more about the culture surrounding high school football in America and although I am a big football fan, the same is probably true for the sport itself as well. That said I think my point of view from the outside just goes to show that you do not have to be an American growing up in a football family to love this movie because it is about so much more than football.
Growing up in Sweden I guess there are people that know a lot more about the culture surrounding high school football in America and although I am a big football fan, the same is probably true for the sport itself as well. That said I think my point of view from the outside just goes to show that you do not have to be an American growing up in a football family to love this movie because it is about so much more than football.
If I Could Do It All Over Again....
Chris_Pandolfi13 April 2012
Warning: Spoilers
"Touchback" is not a compelling movie, although it is rife with compelling ideas, which only makes processing my feelings for it that much more difficult. It has some good things to say about the choices we make in life and learning to appreciate what we have; what's missing is a plot capable of supporting these messages fully. If you're going to infuse an inspirational sports drama with the fantastical concept of time travel, there's absolutely no call for half-heartedness. You have to be completely audacious and commit to it fully. Otherwise, we in the audience have no real reason to willingly suspend disbelief. To an extent, writer/director Don Handfield made an honest effort. The issue is, that extent should have been the entire film, not just specific scenes.
Taking place in the blue-collar community of Coldwater, Ohio, where the population seems permanently set at 2,700, it tells the story of Scott Murphy (Brian Presley), who was the star quarterback of his high school's football team back in 1991. During the big game, his leg was injured beyond repair, forever ruining his chances of pursuing college football, making a name for himself, and getting himself and his hard-working mother (Christine Lahti) out of Coldwater. Now in his late thirties with his left leg supported by a brace, he's a walled off and bitter man who numbs his pain with alcohol and grueling volunteer firefighting. He'll stare at old home videos of his games without really seeing them, and he'll secretly drive to a spot where he can watch the current high school team practice.
He's married to Macy (Melanie Lynskey), who was volunteering at the hospital at the time of his accident. With her, he has two young daughters, who only crave his affection. In a town that has nosedived economically due to the closing of the local plant and the 2008 recession, he has received a bad loan for acres of soybeans that aren't growing fast enough and are about ready to fail. Unless he can turn a profit in the course of one day, his home and all his land will be foreclosed. He has so much pride that he can't even bring himself to tell Macy that they're in trouble. Knowing he has ruined not only his life but also the life of his family, he drives to a remote spot, stuffs a rag into the exhaust pipe of his truck, gets back in, turns on the ignition, and hits the accelerator. Black fumes seep in. A few coughs, and the screen fades to white.
When Scott comes to, he realizes that his leg is no longer in a brace, that his beard is gone, that he's wearing jeans and a varsity jacket, and that everyone he once knew is back in his life again. Somehow, he has been transported back to 1991. He's a high school student again! The catch is that he's aware of what will happen over the next twenty years, which will make for some awkward conversational moments. He reunites with his best friend (Marc Blucas) and his sexy high school flame (Sarah Wright), who, following the accident, will end up becoming an item. He also reunites with his coach (Kurt Russell), whose name, Hand, is an apt metaphor for his guiding words of wisdom. Most importantly, he will reunite with Macy, who at that stage of her life was a mousy member of the school band.
I understand what the filmmakers are trying to do here. By making Scott aware that he has gone back in time, they're giving him the opportunity to reflect on his mistakes and alter his future – specifically during the big game, which he will play again. The point is to make him see that life is about the living in the moment and not focusing on the past or the future. The flaw is that Scott is lectured by characters that don't have the luxury of knowing what he already knows. I'm sure if any of them had gone back in time with Scott, they might have been just as tempted, if not more so, to change history. He is, of course, continuously sidetracked by his love for Macy. For her teenage self, this is a bit jarring; Scott has a hot cheerleader girlfriend and never once gave a plain girl like Macy the time of day. She has to wonder where this newfound affection is coming from.
As well intentioned as it is, the film's positive, life-affirming messages are bogged down by an ending that provides plenty in the way of emotional resolution but absolutely nothing in the way of logistics or plausibility. I'm all for feel-good moments. In fact, I actively seek them out. All the same, I prefer that they stem from scenes and situations that actually make sense. And then there are the illusion-shattering casting choices, Presley, Blucas, Lynskey, and Wright playing high school students despite the fact that they each look every bit as old as they actually are. Presley and Lynskey, for example, are thirty-four, and Wright is twenty-eight. The most obvious is Blucas, who's now forty. "Touchback" has its heart in the right place, but it rarely uses its head.
-- Chris Pandolfi (www.atatheaternearyou.net)
Taking place in the blue-collar community of Coldwater, Ohio, where the population seems permanently set at 2,700, it tells the story of Scott Murphy (Brian Presley), who was the star quarterback of his high school's football team back in 1991. During the big game, his leg was injured beyond repair, forever ruining his chances of pursuing college football, making a name for himself, and getting himself and his hard-working mother (Christine Lahti) out of Coldwater. Now in his late thirties with his left leg supported by a brace, he's a walled off and bitter man who numbs his pain with alcohol and grueling volunteer firefighting. He'll stare at old home videos of his games without really seeing them, and he'll secretly drive to a spot where he can watch the current high school team practice.
He's married to Macy (Melanie Lynskey), who was volunteering at the hospital at the time of his accident. With her, he has two young daughters, who only crave his affection. In a town that has nosedived economically due to the closing of the local plant and the 2008 recession, he has received a bad loan for acres of soybeans that aren't growing fast enough and are about ready to fail. Unless he can turn a profit in the course of one day, his home and all his land will be foreclosed. He has so much pride that he can't even bring himself to tell Macy that they're in trouble. Knowing he has ruined not only his life but also the life of his family, he drives to a remote spot, stuffs a rag into the exhaust pipe of his truck, gets back in, turns on the ignition, and hits the accelerator. Black fumes seep in. A few coughs, and the screen fades to white.
When Scott comes to, he realizes that his leg is no longer in a brace, that his beard is gone, that he's wearing jeans and a varsity jacket, and that everyone he once knew is back in his life again. Somehow, he has been transported back to 1991. He's a high school student again! The catch is that he's aware of what will happen over the next twenty years, which will make for some awkward conversational moments. He reunites with his best friend (Marc Blucas) and his sexy high school flame (Sarah Wright), who, following the accident, will end up becoming an item. He also reunites with his coach (Kurt Russell), whose name, Hand, is an apt metaphor for his guiding words of wisdom. Most importantly, he will reunite with Macy, who at that stage of her life was a mousy member of the school band.
I understand what the filmmakers are trying to do here. By making Scott aware that he has gone back in time, they're giving him the opportunity to reflect on his mistakes and alter his future – specifically during the big game, which he will play again. The point is to make him see that life is about the living in the moment and not focusing on the past or the future. The flaw is that Scott is lectured by characters that don't have the luxury of knowing what he already knows. I'm sure if any of them had gone back in time with Scott, they might have been just as tempted, if not more so, to change history. He is, of course, continuously sidetracked by his love for Macy. For her teenage self, this is a bit jarring; Scott has a hot cheerleader girlfriend and never once gave a plain girl like Macy the time of day. She has to wonder where this newfound affection is coming from.
As well intentioned as it is, the film's positive, life-affirming messages are bogged down by an ending that provides plenty in the way of emotional resolution but absolutely nothing in the way of logistics or plausibility. I'm all for feel-good moments. In fact, I actively seek them out. All the same, I prefer that they stem from scenes and situations that actually make sense. And then there are the illusion-shattering casting choices, Presley, Blucas, Lynskey, and Wright playing high school students despite the fact that they each look every bit as old as they actually are. Presley and Lynskey, for example, are thirty-four, and Wright is twenty-eight. The most obvious is Blucas, who's now forty. "Touchback" has its heart in the right place, but it rarely uses its head.
-- Chris Pandolfi (www.atatheaternearyou.net)
Touchback
user-498-657939 October 2012
The story starts off with a man who was injured in a football game; he has a flashback of himself back in high school. He was the star football player for the Coldwater Cavaliers. This football movie was inspiring and also slow. There's not a lot of detail but once you get to a certain point in the movie, it's actually a pretty good film. The actual footage of the football games was really interesting and real. I felt like I was actually at a high school football game. The visual effects were amazing. There were some moments that caught my eye. But really, it was a terrible movie because of the slowness and no detail.
The main character in the story is Scott Murphy; he lives in a small town in Ohio called Coldwater. He went to Coldwater High School and also played football for their football team, he was the star quarterback and he was doing well in school. He has a flashback after the injury and he wants to avoid the injury because he was worried about losing his scholarship to Ohio State. So he decides to not play in the game.
The quality of the film was pretty good. I like the footage of the actual games. There were some good moments in the movie. There was a mixture of different things in the movie that were good I guess.
The music was okay. Not my type of music for the movie but it was an OK movie but I like the suspense of the injury because it left my wondering what was going to happen. I also liked the setting is the story.
The movie was plain and had no detail. It was really boring and also typical because it seemed like a football version of Zac Efron's 17 Again. I was disappointed with the unexpected plot twist. It was as if I was watching two different movies.
I didn't like how the movie didn't go in-depth with the actual football practices or the games. I think if it was based on a true story, it would have been a better plot and story. Better setting and characters.
I just honestly think that most sports movies that are based on true stories are most likely to have more to offer.
The characters were pretty good, sometimes there were parts were it wasn't believable but overall the movie had good actors. I really think they should have showed Kurt Russell more in the story because he is a big actor and the movie would've got more recognition from people or viewers.
Some of the characters had hilarious moments but overall I think most of the characters were like typical, basic characters because the story was basic but maybe to a football coach, it could have been an inspirational story to him.
I honestly think the movie was a waste because of the lack of detail, slowness, no excitement or momentum. It really lacks a good plot because I was confused after the injury. I just thought the movie could have been better.
The main character in the story is Scott Murphy; he lives in a small town in Ohio called Coldwater. He went to Coldwater High School and also played football for their football team, he was the star quarterback and he was doing well in school. He has a flashback after the injury and he wants to avoid the injury because he was worried about losing his scholarship to Ohio State. So he decides to not play in the game.
The quality of the film was pretty good. I like the footage of the actual games. There were some good moments in the movie. There was a mixture of different things in the movie that were good I guess.
The music was okay. Not my type of music for the movie but it was an OK movie but I like the suspense of the injury because it left my wondering what was going to happen. I also liked the setting is the story.
The movie was plain and had no detail. It was really boring and also typical because it seemed like a football version of Zac Efron's 17 Again. I was disappointed with the unexpected plot twist. It was as if I was watching two different movies.
I didn't like how the movie didn't go in-depth with the actual football practices or the games. I think if it was based on a true story, it would have been a better plot and story. Better setting and characters.
I just honestly think that most sports movies that are based on true stories are most likely to have more to offer.
The characters were pretty good, sometimes there were parts were it wasn't believable but overall the movie had good actors. I really think they should have showed Kurt Russell more in the story because he is a big actor and the movie would've got more recognition from people or viewers.
Some of the characters had hilarious moments but overall I think most of the characters were like typical, basic characters because the story was basic but maybe to a football coach, it could have been an inspirational story to him.
I honestly think the movie was a waste because of the lack of detail, slowness, no excitement or momentum. It really lacks a good plot because I was confused after the injury. I just thought the movie could have been better.
Touchback will make you go back and realize what you have
user-498-84762110 October 2012
A high school football quarterback goes back in time and has the choice to change his life. The final game of his high school career crippled him. He could not go to Ohio State to play as the quarterback because of this. He goes back in time and gets the chance to change his life. This movie is very inspirational and makes you look back and realize what you have and could have lost. With the chance to go back and change his life becomes harder than he thought. He sees the girl he will marry later in life and realizes he has to make a choice. He can play the final game differently and stop himself from being crippled and lose his future wife. This movie was very good with a very good life lesson. I thought the movie had a very good meaning. It makes you look back and see what you have right now and could have lost. Its not too touchy feel and a great movie for guys into football. There were a few twists that will keep you interested. They used very good music to go with the scene and had a great setting. It fit the story about a farmer who barely made enough money to support his family. They lived in an old busted up house and he drove an old truck. There weren't a lot of things I didn't like about the movie. Kurt Russell was a great actor for his part. I think he would have played his part better as the grown up Scott Murphy. You didn't get to see him a lot Kurt Russell played as the coach of the football team. As always he was great at playing his role. He was very passionate but I think he would have done better as the grown up Scott Murphy. I didn't like that you barely got to see him though Overall the film was amazing. It has a very good life lesson. It is easy to relate to the characters too. Either you're a high school student with plans about your future, or you're an adult that may or may not have filled your dreams. It touches the hearts of every viewer.
touchback blows your mind!
ham-498-2510529 October 2012
Touchback Blows Your Mind! Touchback is one of the best football movies I have seen. The movie starts out at a football game. Brian Presley stars as Scott Murphy who is a star football player for Coldwater High School. Scott's team made it to the State Championship. At the beginning of the game it seems that they have no hope at winning, but they didn't give up. They gave it all they had and started to comeback. The last play of the game Scott injured his leg and took away his future of playing football.
After trying to kill himself, Scott was given a second chance to go back in time and change his life. While back in time Scott has to make many tough decisions. He has to decide between his career and the love of his life. Scott also has to deal with his mother who works all the time and never goes to any of her son's games. This movie is great because it shows that you don't always get a second chance so you need to make sure you don't mess up the life you are given.
There are many positive things to gather from "Touchback." First off, this movie showed many good aspects to life. This movie showed that you can't change the past, but you can change your future. Secondly, this movie had good special effects such as when Scott goes back in time. The title goes good with the layout of the movie because Scott touched back in to his life. The lighting of the movie was very good. You could see everything clearly. They did a good job with the rating of the movie, which is PG-13. I think it is well set because; younger children do not need to see a couple love scenes.
There are positive and yet there are negative things about this movie. The movie gets into it really fast. So you don't really get to enjoy the movie as much. There wasn't really much of a soundtrack for the movie; I only remember hearing one song in the entire movie.
This movie shows no action scenes. So if you wanted to watch an action movie you might want to watch a different movie. There were some special effects in this movie. I think they could have put more effects though. The title of the movie was pretty good but they could have come up with a better one.
Scott Murphy is the protagonist of the movie. Brian Presely plays as Scott. I think that Brian fit the character very well and was a good person for it. In the movie Scott faces many obstacles. He has to fight for his wife Macy, while he is given a second chance at life.
Scotts coach is played by Kurt Russel. His coach would push and push to get his team motivated to win. His coach visits Scott periodically and hung out with him. Kurt was a father figure for Scott because Scott did not have a father. Scott has to choose between his wife Macy or his career in the movie.
Overall Touchback is a very good movie. Safe for the family and it shows many good meanings to life. I plan to buy this movie so I can watch it all the time. There are many good reasons why you should see this movie. For instance, it could give you inspiration so you can learn to enjoy life again. Or you can just watch it and enjoy a great movie.
After trying to kill himself, Scott was given a second chance to go back in time and change his life. While back in time Scott has to make many tough decisions. He has to decide between his career and the love of his life. Scott also has to deal with his mother who works all the time and never goes to any of her son's games. This movie is great because it shows that you don't always get a second chance so you need to make sure you don't mess up the life you are given.
There are many positive things to gather from "Touchback." First off, this movie showed many good aspects to life. This movie showed that you can't change the past, but you can change your future. Secondly, this movie had good special effects such as when Scott goes back in time. The title goes good with the layout of the movie because Scott touched back in to his life. The lighting of the movie was very good. You could see everything clearly. They did a good job with the rating of the movie, which is PG-13. I think it is well set because; younger children do not need to see a couple love scenes.
There are positive and yet there are negative things about this movie. The movie gets into it really fast. So you don't really get to enjoy the movie as much. There wasn't really much of a soundtrack for the movie; I only remember hearing one song in the entire movie.
This movie shows no action scenes. So if you wanted to watch an action movie you might want to watch a different movie. There were some special effects in this movie. I think they could have put more effects though. The title of the movie was pretty good but they could have come up with a better one.
Scott Murphy is the protagonist of the movie. Brian Presely plays as Scott. I think that Brian fit the character very well and was a good person for it. In the movie Scott faces many obstacles. He has to fight for his wife Macy, while he is given a second chance at life.
Scotts coach is played by Kurt Russel. His coach would push and push to get his team motivated to win. His coach visits Scott periodically and hung out with him. Kurt was a father figure for Scott because Scott did not have a father. Scott has to choose between his wife Macy or his career in the movie.
Overall Touchback is a very good movie. Safe for the family and it shows many good meanings to life. I plan to buy this movie so I can watch it all the time. There are many good reasons why you should see this movie. For instance, it could give you inspiration so you can learn to enjoy life again. Or you can just watch it and enjoy a great movie.
An inspirational and entertaining sports movie that has shades of "It's A Wonderful Life". Good but pretty cheesy. I say B.
cosmo_tiger19 June 2012
"If you could live your life over again...would you?" High school quarterback Scott Murphy (Presley) has everything going for him. He was voted best football player in the state of Ohio, has a full ride scholarship to Ohio State (gross), he is dating the head cheerleader and is playing in the state championship game. With time running out he rushes for the winning score and makes it. When the players are peeled off of him he is left laying in the end-zone with a broken leg. Fifteen years later his home is about to get foreclosed on and his farm is failing. Out of ideas to support his family he begins to gas himself out. When he passes out he wakes up 15 years earlier with a chance to change everything. I have stated before that I am a sucker for sports movies. Kurt Russel being in this really made me excited to see this. While this is a very good movie that I enjoyed and recommend it was also pretty cheesy. Without giving anything away I have to say that the reason I don't like most faith based movies is because there never seems to be any real obstacles in the main characters way. In one scene something happens to stop them and in the next they have moved past it easily. While this is not a faith based movie this one had the feel of one. In a simpler terms...this is a very good movie but don't expect something like "Remember The Titans" or even "Rudy", this is more like an "It's A Wonderful Life" meets "Friday Night Lights" type movie. Overall, not bad but pretty cheesy. I give it a B.
Movie Review
user-499-50371911 October 2012
In the movie Touchback there are many life lessons that are portrayed. For example the flashback that Scott has of the biggest game of his entire senior season. Then it shows a rag stuffed in his exhaust pipe which to me looks like he was intentionally trying to kill himself. This is one of the main points of the story, but I'm rather skeptical about it because if it were to happen like that then he would either faint or die.
Then there's the climax of the story, where he has the option to sit out of the game or play in it. He chooses to play because his dream is to play college football, but he ends up getting his leg broken on a game winning run. While all that is happening he can't help but think of his old life, his wife, and children. Initially, he wanted to redo that part of his life but he realizes something's are just meant to be. If it wouldn't have happened he wouldn't have ended up the person he was at the end.
I did like some things about Touchback, however the plot was good. Character selection was great; the best actors I thought were Scott Murphy's coach and Scott. Reasons for me liking those characters are that I've seen Kurt Russell in a couple of film production, and Brian Presley I thought was perfect for the role as he displayed. I liked the emotion he put into the film, especially at the end of the film.
The setting I liked because I live in Ohio. The city that the story took place in was Coldwater, but I noticed during the movie that the star actor or main character Scott was referring to the town as backwater. Later on though he realizes it's not about the town you grew up in it's the people, and the things you do to make it seem that way. For example his wife Macy's dream was to have her parent's farm and live a happy normal life. Scott had other dreams like making it through college and playing professional Football, but it was abruptly ended by his leg injury.
First off the title Touchback has no relation I thought to the movie itself. Some of the characters such as Scott's high school sweetheart Jenny I had only seen her a few times in other productions. My opinion there wasn't very many A+ actors in this featured film. I thought that a movie of this caliber or as good of a storyline as this one had would have had some Hollywood stars in it.
Also the music was horrible I thought it's a sports movie not a funeral home. There should have more inspiration in the music rather than some sappy old tunes. The cover seemed misleading as well I didn't think he would end up hurt; I thought that they would make it through some tournament or something. The negative things out weighted the positive things a lot in my personal opinion.
The main characters were good I thought, except for Jenny she didn't really portray anything like the rest of them did. For example, Macy was a huge part of the story. Scott revolved around her, so did the plot or the storyline. The climax to me was when he found out that his soybean field couldn't be picked due to his harvester being broken by a log found in the field. Scott gave the brave impression the popular kid who stood up for the nerds but, when he was in high school the first time he was rude to the nerds. Then, he realizes that he shouldn't have acted that way to people who didn't deserve it.
I feel like this film production is intended for the youth or young adults, I mean adults would watch it but at the price of boredom. If you are wondering how it's intended for young people, it's because of the setting I mean it's a typical high school Friday night football game with the occasional beautiful pretty blonde girl or the big bulky football player who going to college for his hard work and dedication to the game.
Finally, here is my last critic in my general opinion I didn't like it. I wasn't really looking forward to seeing it or even enjoyed it except for a couple parts. I would not recommend paying to see this at a movie theater personally but, everyone is entitled to their own opinion.
Then there's the climax of the story, where he has the option to sit out of the game or play in it. He chooses to play because his dream is to play college football, but he ends up getting his leg broken on a game winning run. While all that is happening he can't help but think of his old life, his wife, and children. Initially, he wanted to redo that part of his life but he realizes something's are just meant to be. If it wouldn't have happened he wouldn't have ended up the person he was at the end.
I did like some things about Touchback, however the plot was good. Character selection was great; the best actors I thought were Scott Murphy's coach and Scott. Reasons for me liking those characters are that I've seen Kurt Russell in a couple of film production, and Brian Presley I thought was perfect for the role as he displayed. I liked the emotion he put into the film, especially at the end of the film.
The setting I liked because I live in Ohio. The city that the story took place in was Coldwater, but I noticed during the movie that the star actor or main character Scott was referring to the town as backwater. Later on though he realizes it's not about the town you grew up in it's the people, and the things you do to make it seem that way. For example his wife Macy's dream was to have her parent's farm and live a happy normal life. Scott had other dreams like making it through college and playing professional Football, but it was abruptly ended by his leg injury.
First off the title Touchback has no relation I thought to the movie itself. Some of the characters such as Scott's high school sweetheart Jenny I had only seen her a few times in other productions. My opinion there wasn't very many A+ actors in this featured film. I thought that a movie of this caliber or as good of a storyline as this one had would have had some Hollywood stars in it.
Also the music was horrible I thought it's a sports movie not a funeral home. There should have more inspiration in the music rather than some sappy old tunes. The cover seemed misleading as well I didn't think he would end up hurt; I thought that they would make it through some tournament or something. The negative things out weighted the positive things a lot in my personal opinion.
The main characters were good I thought, except for Jenny she didn't really portray anything like the rest of them did. For example, Macy was a huge part of the story. Scott revolved around her, so did the plot or the storyline. The climax to me was when he found out that his soybean field couldn't be picked due to his harvester being broken by a log found in the field. Scott gave the brave impression the popular kid who stood up for the nerds but, when he was in high school the first time he was rude to the nerds. Then, he realizes that he shouldn't have acted that way to people who didn't deserve it.
I feel like this film production is intended for the youth or young adults, I mean adults would watch it but at the price of boredom. If you are wondering how it's intended for young people, it's because of the setting I mean it's a typical high school Friday night football game with the occasional beautiful pretty blonde girl or the big bulky football player who going to college for his hard work and dedication to the game.
Finally, here is my last critic in my general opinion I didn't like it. I wasn't really looking forward to seeing it or even enjoyed it except for a couple parts. I would not recommend paying to see this at a movie theater personally but, everyone is entitled to their own opinion.
"A Christmas Carol" with Football
gavin694229 August 2012
A man (Brian Presley) looks back 15 years to the injury that ended his career as a promising high-school football player.
This movie is a cross between "A Christmas Carol" and "Remember the Titans". The writer and director, Don Handfield, says he was inspired by Frank Capra's "It's a Wonderful Life", and that certainly is evident. The basic plot is a man who returns to a turning point in his life after giving up on the life he had. (The novel version says it involves a "time-traveling truck". Maybe the book is different, but here the truck does not do that.)
This film's strength is that it is a love story first and a football story second. It certainly is a great story of a man learning to love his wife all over again. The film's weakness is that the artwork presents it as a football movie, and several scenes make it out to be about the underdog beating the big guys. But that is never the point, and to mislead audiences might leave them disappointed or betrayed. As I am not a football fan, I thought it was a delightful turn, but others may not see it that way.
This movie is a cross between "A Christmas Carol" and "Remember the Titans". The writer and director, Don Handfield, says he was inspired by Frank Capra's "It's a Wonderful Life", and that certainly is evident. The basic plot is a man who returns to a turning point in his life after giving up on the life he had. (The novel version says it involves a "time-traveling truck". Maybe the book is different, but here the truck does not do that.)
This film's strength is that it is a love story first and a football story second. It certainly is a great story of a man learning to love his wife all over again. The film's weakness is that the artwork presents it as a football movie, and several scenes make it out to be about the underdog beating the big guys. But that is never the point, and to mislead audiences might leave them disappointed or betrayed. As I am not a football fan, I thought it was a delightful turn, but others may not see it that way.
One of the Surprise Sleepers of the Decade: Touchback Movie
obgriffiths10 May 2014
Scanned the cluttered movie store shelves for an hour before I found "Touchback". Both the cover and title were less than captivating but the IMDb reviews were good, so home it came.
What a surprise! Time travel, decent football scenes, and enough romance to keep the wife well interested. The suspense and unpredictability of the ending iced the cake! If you are looking for a good movie for mixed company, to entertain a group of youth, or for a date night -- this is one to keep in mind.
Despite being a box office flop, this movie has all elements of a great movie for its budget.
What a surprise! Time travel, decent football scenes, and enough romance to keep the wife well interested. The suspense and unpredictability of the ending iced the cake! If you are looking for a good movie for mixed company, to entertain a group of youth, or for a date night -- this is one to keep in mind.
Despite being a box office flop, this movie has all elements of a great movie for its budget.
Bad with Redeeming Qualities
dansview16 January 2013
This is not a good movie, but....it has many lovely qualities. That comment supports my theory that just because a movie is bad overall, does not mean you will waste your time watching it. I take note of setting, photography, acting, and any aspects of plot that jar significant thoughts in me.
I'll go the next step...this movie is terrible, but I had a good time. I don't regret my Red Box purchase at all. It cost 4 dollars less than it would have at Blockbuster too.
Before I go any further, let me call this a cross between Peggy Sue Got Married, It's a Wonderful Life, and Dancer, Texas.
The movie takes place at the end of a high school football season in Ohio. I am not a Meteorologist, but wouldn't it be kind of cold? There is no indication of cold weather.
The main character is one of the top football quarterbacks in the state, heading for a scholarship at Ohio State University, a football powerhouse. But he is only 5'10 and one half, according to IMDb's bio. of the actor who played him. That is clear throughout the film, as he looks up, literally, to his coach and teammates. Elite quarterbacks are never that height, with the exception of Doug Flutie. They are usually between 6'2 and 6'7. So I had to try to ignore that.
The character goes back in time, but there is exactly ZERO explanation for how that happened. A 10-year-old could come up with that plot device without explanation. Just have a character fall asleep or pass out, and wake up in the past. It's like not doing your math homework, but expecting a passing grade anyways. It was too hard to think of some kind of Science Fiction explanation, so they just said, "Forget about it." The characters were around 35 in real life, while playing high school students. Perhaps it would have been wiser to have young actors play the youthful versions of our protagonists.
Almost every cliché of a film about a broke farmer and/or small town football, is exploited in this film: loan problems, crop failure,corny locker room speeches, buddies, jocks, nerds, shallow cheerleaders, you name it.
OK. Enough criticism. What I loved about the picture, was the emphasis on the unity and subtle delights of a small rural town. I also loved the fact that a couple winds up together due to happenstance, because that is true to life. Often we plan for one thing, but life happens while we are making those other plans, as the saying goes. Unlikely couples are more common than we realize.
The acting is decent. Kurt Russell's character is clichéd, but he has a few good moments, when he explains the value of a small town. The girl from the T.V. show Two and a half Men was excellent. She looked the part and pulled off the role with commitment. Christine Lahti's role was not super demanding, but she gave it some soul, and the main guy, Brian Presley, whom I have never heard of, did an adequate job, considering the fact that jocks are not known for a range of emotions.
I would have liked to see him show more emotion, but perhaps the writers and Director did not ask for that.
Overall, a film worth watching, for its' basic message of appreciation for the life and love you have, mild football action, and a quaint setting.
I'll go the next step...this movie is terrible, but I had a good time. I don't regret my Red Box purchase at all. It cost 4 dollars less than it would have at Blockbuster too.
Before I go any further, let me call this a cross between Peggy Sue Got Married, It's a Wonderful Life, and Dancer, Texas.
The movie takes place at the end of a high school football season in Ohio. I am not a Meteorologist, but wouldn't it be kind of cold? There is no indication of cold weather.
The main character is one of the top football quarterbacks in the state, heading for a scholarship at Ohio State University, a football powerhouse. But he is only 5'10 and one half, according to IMDb's bio. of the actor who played him. That is clear throughout the film, as he looks up, literally, to his coach and teammates. Elite quarterbacks are never that height, with the exception of Doug Flutie. They are usually between 6'2 and 6'7. So I had to try to ignore that.
The character goes back in time, but there is exactly ZERO explanation for how that happened. A 10-year-old could come up with that plot device without explanation. Just have a character fall asleep or pass out, and wake up in the past. It's like not doing your math homework, but expecting a passing grade anyways. It was too hard to think of some kind of Science Fiction explanation, so they just said, "Forget about it." The characters were around 35 in real life, while playing high school students. Perhaps it would have been wiser to have young actors play the youthful versions of our protagonists.
Almost every cliché of a film about a broke farmer and/or small town football, is exploited in this film: loan problems, crop failure,corny locker room speeches, buddies, jocks, nerds, shallow cheerleaders, you name it.
OK. Enough criticism. What I loved about the picture, was the emphasis on the unity and subtle delights of a small rural town. I also loved the fact that a couple winds up together due to happenstance, because that is true to life. Often we plan for one thing, but life happens while we are making those other plans, as the saying goes. Unlikely couples are more common than we realize.
The acting is decent. Kurt Russell's character is clichéd, but he has a few good moments, when he explains the value of a small town. The girl from the T.V. show Two and a half Men was excellent. She looked the part and pulled off the role with commitment. Christine Lahti's role was not super demanding, but she gave it some soul, and the main guy, Brian Presley, whom I have never heard of, did an adequate job, considering the fact that jocks are not known for a range of emotions.
I would have liked to see him show more emotion, but perhaps the writers and Director did not ask for that.
Overall, a film worth watching, for its' basic message of appreciation for the life and love you have, mild football action, and a quaint setting.
Some poignant moments but....
gnacken-703-747013 June 2013
Warning: Spoilers
The original idea may have been sound: if you had a chance to go back in time and change your life, and the people in it, would you? You may have posed this question to your friends, and had to keep raising the stakes to make it interesting, and ridiculous (yes, you still have your kids, but your wife is Michelle Pfeiffer).
This movie poses that question, and unfortunately, the stakes get just as ridiculous. Our subject, the former football star, wasn't just a football player, he was "Mr. Football," so much so that everyone reminds him about the "big game" he played in twenty years earlier. And the thick gets laid on from there. He's broke. The truck's rusty. The crops are dying. And if that isn't enough, his high school teammate, now living the life-that-should've-been-his, shows up with a gorgeous wife in an Aren't-You-Jealous Mobile, played, as usual, by a red Porsche 911.
Scott Murphy, the former star quarterback, bemoaning what's become of his life after football, tries to kill himself with carbon monoxide. After passing out, he either dreams, or actually travels back in time (the movie doesn't seem to know which) to the week of the "big game" that changes his life forever. He's back in high school, with healthy knees, the popular girlfriend, and a chance to do it all over again. Or do it ALL over again and end up right where he is (or isn't) in the same small town, same injured leg, same sweet wife and kids who love him, same problems. Hmmm.
Any time someone "travels back in time," I keep thinking of Doc Brown's rules, and our hero Scott Murphy seems to break all of them. Once, he even confronts his future wife, telling her about their future, proving it with intimate knowledge of her no one could possibly know, and after a short "how'd you know about that?" she brushes him off! But wait a minute, HOW'D HE KNOW ABOUT THAT? If someone showed up and did this to me, I'd either have to believe they were actually from the future, or I'd file a restraining order.
Then the big game. Does he repeat the winning play, the one that results with him being injured and giving up his dream to play college football and ending up stuck in this one-horse hick town? Or does he change things and take the path he missed the first time around, including a full scholarship to Ohio State, and, more stake-raising, a guaranteed road to NFL stardom? (side note: the OSU coach actually encourages him to quit his team on the day of the game so as not to get hurt?? They actually do this?)
Murphy realizes that if he changes the final play, like throw the ball to the wide open guy waving his arms for instance, or does anything to avoid having his knee blown up, (like I don't know, duck?) he'll lose his future wife, which is a baffling equation! Just because he doesn't get hurt? Couldn't he even have made the same decisions as before, stayed in the small town, married the small town girl, but with two healthy legs?? Or did they cut the scene where she tells him she'll marry him because she digs bitter guys with knee braces?
And more baffling stuff during the game. Yes it's refreshing to watch movie football where people actually seem to get hit, but why does the coach send "Mr. Football" back to return the kickoff? And why does Murphy then call a timeout after he's tackled and as anyone knows, the clock stops anyway? And why then, as he's contemplating his fateful decision, do we see the clock TICKING DOWN (7..6..5..)? And as he then takes 20 seconds or so to change the play, stare at his "wife," while anyone who can count to four knows the game would've ended fifteen seconds ago? Why, playing against a team we were told had the best pass defense in football, are the receivers all "wide open?" And WHY DOESN'T HE DUCK??
When he returns to the present, of course he has a new attitude, and everything works out Capra-nice. Of course it does. I can hear the writers saying "and the twist will be he DECIDES to do it just the same way! Yeah! It's a wonderful life, isn't it?" when the twist would've been "you know, all things considered, I'll take the blonde and the car!"
And when he returns, everything in his life is exactly the same, so I'm leaning towards the dream theory. A really really lucid dream. That carbon monoxide must be good stuff.
This movie poses that question, and unfortunately, the stakes get just as ridiculous. Our subject, the former football star, wasn't just a football player, he was "Mr. Football," so much so that everyone reminds him about the "big game" he played in twenty years earlier. And the thick gets laid on from there. He's broke. The truck's rusty. The crops are dying. And if that isn't enough, his high school teammate, now living the life-that-should've-been-his, shows up with a gorgeous wife in an Aren't-You-Jealous Mobile, played, as usual, by a red Porsche 911.
Scott Murphy, the former star quarterback, bemoaning what's become of his life after football, tries to kill himself with carbon monoxide. After passing out, he either dreams, or actually travels back in time (the movie doesn't seem to know which) to the week of the "big game" that changes his life forever. He's back in high school, with healthy knees, the popular girlfriend, and a chance to do it all over again. Or do it ALL over again and end up right where he is (or isn't) in the same small town, same injured leg, same sweet wife and kids who love him, same problems. Hmmm.
Any time someone "travels back in time," I keep thinking of Doc Brown's rules, and our hero Scott Murphy seems to break all of them. Once, he even confronts his future wife, telling her about their future, proving it with intimate knowledge of her no one could possibly know, and after a short "how'd you know about that?" she brushes him off! But wait a minute, HOW'D HE KNOW ABOUT THAT? If someone showed up and did this to me, I'd either have to believe they were actually from the future, or I'd file a restraining order.
Then the big game. Does he repeat the winning play, the one that results with him being injured and giving up his dream to play college football and ending up stuck in this one-horse hick town? Or does he change things and take the path he missed the first time around, including a full scholarship to Ohio State, and, more stake-raising, a guaranteed road to NFL stardom? (side note: the OSU coach actually encourages him to quit his team on the day of the game so as not to get hurt?? They actually do this?)
Murphy realizes that if he changes the final play, like throw the ball to the wide open guy waving his arms for instance, or does anything to avoid having his knee blown up, (like I don't know, duck?) he'll lose his future wife, which is a baffling equation! Just because he doesn't get hurt? Couldn't he even have made the same decisions as before, stayed in the small town, married the small town girl, but with two healthy legs?? Or did they cut the scene where she tells him she'll marry him because she digs bitter guys with knee braces?
And more baffling stuff during the game. Yes it's refreshing to watch movie football where people actually seem to get hit, but why does the coach send "Mr. Football" back to return the kickoff? And why does Murphy then call a timeout after he's tackled and as anyone knows, the clock stops anyway? And why then, as he's contemplating his fateful decision, do we see the clock TICKING DOWN (7..6..5..)? And as he then takes 20 seconds or so to change the play, stare at his "wife," while anyone who can count to four knows the game would've ended fifteen seconds ago? Why, playing against a team we were told had the best pass defense in football, are the receivers all "wide open?" And WHY DOESN'T HE DUCK??
When he returns to the present, of course he has a new attitude, and everything works out Capra-nice. Of course it does. I can hear the writers saying "and the twist will be he DECIDES to do it just the same way! Yeah! It's a wonderful life, isn't it?" when the twist would've been "you know, all things considered, I'll take the blonde and the car!"
And when he returns, everything in his life is exactly the same, so I'm leaning towards the dream theory. A really really lucid dream. That carbon monoxide must be good stuff.
A movie about the past for the future
vcastilino21 October 2012
Touchback is the story of a football player who gets a chance to relive his high school days, at the end of which 15 years ago, he injured his leg and thereby lost his chance to go to college and play as a professional. As he finds himself in a known situation, he relooks at the very things (present) knowing well what is the future. Initially he is excited that he can now literally rewrite the past, especially his dream of getting out of the small native town he has grown up in and become a professional football player. However, his interactions with his coach, his own single mother and most of all with an unknown girl (who in his present is his wife) in the college - not unknown, but he never really did notice her then - he begins to see the beauty of the present. His mother challenges him to be happy now, rather than eternally keep chasing happiness in the future. Finally when he actually has a chance to change the present, in line with his grand plans for the future, he does the same as he did then, 15 years ago... all for the sake of retaining what is most important in life... love and friendship of those dear and not personal plans for glory.
I wonder how many of us, if given a chance to go back into our past and change things, would change the whole of it? Or some of it? Or most of it? Blessed are those who will live it as it is and be happy about it! Because only then will each present moment count and every choice made valuable, because my present is more important than my past or the future... because my choice for the right and lasting things of life is more important than momentary glory and honour.
http://vcastilino.blogspot.in/
I wonder how many of us, if given a chance to go back into our past and change things, would change the whole of it? Or some of it? Or most of it? Blessed are those who will live it as it is and be happy about it! Because only then will each present moment count and every choice made valuable, because my present is more important than my past or the future... because my choice for the right and lasting things of life is more important than momentary glory and honour.
http://vcastilino.blogspot.in/
It's a Wonderful Life Meets Friday Night Lights
guacamoledeath20 October 2013
Warning: Spoilers
Replace Clarence the angel with football, and you have "Touchback." Except instead of all the good qualities that motivate George Bailey to time and again sacrifice his plans for fame and fortune, you're left with a has-been quarterback who blames everyone but himself for his series of misfortunes since his crippling last high school football game.
Consider George Bailey of "It's a Wonderful Life." He can't wait to leave his hick hometown for a successful career in the city. Yet, at every opportunity, he instead selflessly chooses to sacrifice his plans in order to come to the aid of his neighbors and the town itself. Years go by. He never gets to leave Bedford Falls, and slowly grows bitter. When his life hits rock bottom, he opts for suicide. At the last instant, he gains new perspective and finally appreciates how his life turned out, despite his long-gone grandiose plans. As he makes this realization, the entire town turns out to help him in his time of need.
Enter Scott Murphy of "Touchback." He can't wait to leave his hick hometown for a successful career as a quarterback. But when he sustains a crippling injury in a high school football game, it derails his far- fetched plans of one day playing for the NFL. Years go by. He never gets to leave Coldwater, and slowly grows bitter. When he finds himself at rock bottom, he opts for suicide. At the last instant, he gains new perspective and finally appreciates how his life turned out, despite his long-gone grandiose plans. As he makes this realization, the entire town turns out to help him in his time of need.
The difference is, Scott Murphy's only great dilemma in life is whether to choose a successful football career or a successful marriage. Either decision enriches his personal life, so it's really not much of a sacrifice, and doesn't garner much sympathy from the audience. Sure, he could have more money as a professional football player, but when the alternative is sticking with the future mother of his children, it's really not much of a choice. Furthermore, neither decision is for the benefit of the town or its people. Whatever he chooses, it's motivated by selfishness. Scott Murphy is all about Scott Murphy.
Whereas George Bailey's livelihood is repeatedly hindered by his self- sacrifice for the sake of his neighbors, Scott Murphy's own series of poor life choices keep him struggling to support his family. The only plan he ever had in life was to play football. The only act of kindness he ever visits upon his friends is dropping them off unceremoniously at their houses as a designated driver.
So, between the two protagonists, George Bailey is hands down the more generous, morally upright individual. Scott Murphy is just a bitter, poor bean farmer who can't stop reliving his final high school game.
Consider George Bailey of "It's a Wonderful Life." He can't wait to leave his hick hometown for a successful career in the city. Yet, at every opportunity, he instead selflessly chooses to sacrifice his plans in order to come to the aid of his neighbors and the town itself. Years go by. He never gets to leave Bedford Falls, and slowly grows bitter. When his life hits rock bottom, he opts for suicide. At the last instant, he gains new perspective and finally appreciates how his life turned out, despite his long-gone grandiose plans. As he makes this realization, the entire town turns out to help him in his time of need.
Enter Scott Murphy of "Touchback." He can't wait to leave his hick hometown for a successful career as a quarterback. But when he sustains a crippling injury in a high school football game, it derails his far- fetched plans of one day playing for the NFL. Years go by. He never gets to leave Coldwater, and slowly grows bitter. When he finds himself at rock bottom, he opts for suicide. At the last instant, he gains new perspective and finally appreciates how his life turned out, despite his long-gone grandiose plans. As he makes this realization, the entire town turns out to help him in his time of need.
The difference is, Scott Murphy's only great dilemma in life is whether to choose a successful football career or a successful marriage. Either decision enriches his personal life, so it's really not much of a sacrifice, and doesn't garner much sympathy from the audience. Sure, he could have more money as a professional football player, but when the alternative is sticking with the future mother of his children, it's really not much of a choice. Furthermore, neither decision is for the benefit of the town or its people. Whatever he chooses, it's motivated by selfishness. Scott Murphy is all about Scott Murphy.
Whereas George Bailey's livelihood is repeatedly hindered by his self- sacrifice for the sake of his neighbors, Scott Murphy's own series of poor life choices keep him struggling to support his family. The only plan he ever had in life was to play football. The only act of kindness he ever visits upon his friends is dropping them off unceremoniously at their houses as a designated driver.
So, between the two protagonists, George Bailey is hands down the more generous, morally upright individual. Scott Murphy is just a bitter, poor bean farmer who can't stop reliving his final high school game.
Much better than Expected
DGMcCready20 April 2012
I consider myself a movie buff and definitely a football fan, so I didn't know what to expect from this movie. Understood the premise, guy is transformed back to his youth to relive a sports moment---insert clichés from every bad movie that uses that tired tactic. However, it works in this movie and makes you forget it immediately and concentrate on the story. The lead character is searching for something and the audience goes on the ride with him. There is humor throughout to keep you laughing and plenty of tearful moments. The football moments are not plentiful, but just enough. Probably the best family movie I have seen in sometime. The words, "cheesy" and "corny" will be plastered throughout the reviews of this film. That is because it will be compared to "17 Again" and other movies of the like. I compare this movie to no other, as I have never seen one that gets it right like this one.
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