The Last Champion (2020) Poster

User Reviews

Review this title
28 Reviews
Sort by:
Filter by Rating:
8/10
Great inspirational movie...second chances.
playercoach1213 December 2020
The people involved with the The Last Champion movie trailer should get a A plus plus. !! Incredible job. Editing and music overlay hit a home run. Definitely hit my emotional nerve. Great story....
11 out of 15 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
8/10
Finally, a character study that's positive and uplifting
donmccandless-8632018 June 2021
I'm done with all the 'We're all terrible so we're all going to get punished' movies. Enough already. Let's have more like The Last Champion. We all make mistakes, and the main character in this story committed a whopper, but that's just the beginning. The story lies in what it takes to make one's way back.

High School wrestling provides the backdrop for the story, and there are some good depictions of the sport here, better than most I've seen, but this story isn't about wrestling, it's about forgiving yourself, forgiving others, and moving forward with your life.

Cole Hauser doesn't mimic his Yellowstone character, he finds another dimension and goes there. I'm a Rip Wheeler fan, but don't watch this movie because you miss Yellowstone. Watch this movie for the good life lessons that are presented, the great acting, and a moving score.
1 out of 3 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
8/10
Worthy of your time
uajx22 August 2021
Filmed in Big Sky country, this is a beautiful tale. Cole Hauser, who has skyrocketed to fame with his work in Yellowstone, delivers a wonderful performance. Also, the great Dan Gable makes a cameo at the end of the film. He would never have been involved with this, if he didn't believe it would not represent amateur wrestling well.
1 out of 3 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
7/10
All in for any wrestling story
juanmoorebeer19 August 2021
Good story Adequate acting Terrible wrestling with unnecessary attempts to add drama that has nothing to do with the real thing.

They should have used Gable as a consultant rather than a prop.
0 out of 1 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
6/10
simple redemption story
SnoopyStyle6 July 2021
Disgraced former wrestling champ John Wright (Cole Hauser) returns to his hometown. He's an outcast among the town folks. He's back to sell the family home after the death of his mother. Michael Miller is the struggling student wrestler. His mother is a drunk and they are too poor to buy meat. He's caught stealing from the grocery store. When the supportive wrestling coach Frank Stevens dies, John is hired as the new coach.

This filled with emotional melodrama. I would prefer less on-the-nose melodrama. The villains are over-the-top villains. I do appreciate Cole Hauser trying to underplay his performance. It's probably the only way to do his acting in this case. It's good that his personal flaw isn't explained away or passed on to the bad guy. I was half-expecting that the villain had somehow forced John to take the steroids. At its core, this is a very simple story of redemption. Its simplicity is a great strength but it may have contributed to some simplification of the villain characters.
0 out of 0 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
I wish they made more like this
rlynn-2558331 December 2020
I'm a big fan of films like The Karate Kid and Rudy. I love a good sports movie and Cole Hauser is becoming one of the greats. This is a deeply felt sports drama without the schmaltz that often accompanies films like this. Every performance was authentic the wrestling action was very realistic and I had an easy time following it though I am not too familiar with the sport.
10 out of 14 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Great movie with a beautiful story
andrewmoroch27 December 2020
Honestly this was a great movie with a beautiful story. I've heard people saying it was bad because "it didn't have enough wrestling." Well here's the thing... if you're looking to watch a high school wrestling match, I recommend going down to your local high school to do so, because this isn't what this movie is or is intended to be. This movie is about second chances, redemption, perseverance, and community, and it's portrayed through the use of a high school wrestling team and a former Olympic wrestler.

So if you're into sports related movies and love a good story to go along with it, this movie is for you and I highly recommend.
10 out of 14 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
5/10
Not bad, not good
william-f-hallinan9 July 2021
The acting was on point. But the story.... See Hoosiers....
3 out of 3 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Excellent family film, one of the best movies I've seen in years
ebonymay-333423 January 2021
My husband chose this one because he loves sports movies, but I couldn't believe how much I enjoyed it. One of the best movies I've seen in years. Excellent drama, and a great overall redemption story. The lead actor who plays the John Wright character gives a heartbreaking performance, he had me in tears at a few parts, and the child actor who plays Michael was terrific. It's a story about a man who makes a mistake in his past, and has the opportunity for a second chance, but he has to first find a way to forgive himself. And the final wrestling match had us on the edge of our seats, and I'm not even a sports person! It gave me chills! Anyway, this is such a great movie I felt like I had to give it a review, because you will love this movie even if you're not a sports person. It's just a very good story, and the kind of movie that they just don't make anymore. I have a feeling this will be on our Christmas watch list every year. Give it a chance, you won't be sorry.
9 out of 13 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
3/10
Superficial and overreaching
cruzarts-7394613 December 2020
I really enjoy come-from-behind sports films: KARATE KID, McFARLAND USA, HOOSIERS, MIRACLE. This film's trailer had that quality.

What is delivered is a film that can't multi-task, has gaping holes and painful questions that are not resolved, and fails to strongly define an army of characters.

Act 1 starts off promising, local stare returns home and faces a town full of people who seem not to ahve moved on.

Act 2 turns into a "church fixes everything" saga, but there is a crisis situation and the main character's response -- or lack thereof -- is never explained.

Act 3 truncates a sports champion film and hangs it on the end. Sadly, there is zero resolution for the host of other characters. There is a little congratulatory cheer and then it just ends.

There are truly some likeable actors in what amount to a series of extended cameos -- there is no fabric to this film, it is not a woven piece, but a collection of bits. The actors are underserved by a script that rarely ventures below the surface; and when it tries, the effort is one-off. Listing off subplots and dramas would reveal what seems like a checklist, not an intricate interplay of realistic lives and characters.
12 out of 26 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Superb acting~such a great story...Loved it!
babycakes-4526920 December 2020
This is the best movie I've seen in a long time, it touches on so many levels; family, loss, growing pains, addiction, life mistakes...redemption. And even though I didn't want the movie to end, the ending was perfect. 10 stars across the board! Thank you for such a beautiful movie. Happy Holidays!
8 out of 12 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Excellent film for all audiences
hmcfadyen-5386731 December 2020
This film is stunning. As another reviewer noted, this film is sure to be a classic. It's beautifully shot, well-written, and the acting is superb. It's the feel good movie that we all needed in 2020. I highly recommend and can't wait to see what the creators do next.
8 out of 12 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
3/10
I tried to like this movie I really did.
jdzurinda26 August 2021
OK, we start out with the star of the movie doing penance out on the lonely range. He has an envelope in his boot that he removes, looks at and puts back in his boot. Guess he doesn't know how to read.

Now the whole town knows what sacred trust he violated but 40 minutes into the movie we the audience have no idea what it is.

After arriving in his home town we realize that he "Has to find himself". That was it for me. A whole town knows but we don't.
2 out of 3 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
9/10
Easily a Classic
baileye-6549020 December 2020
A movie that values hard work, determination, kindness and GOD in 2020!!! Uh, yes please! I would have given it ten stars but gave it nine for the predictability factor, other than that, I was very happy to find this gem tonight. Loved it!
9 out of 14 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
9/10
Engaging gem!
hey-nora-11 January 2021
Beautifully acted, well crafted film, with a warmly satisfying story. Worthy watch!
4 out of 8 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Your kids need to see this Movie!
billcurry-6785427 December 2023
The performances in "The Last Champion" are nothing short of extraordinary. The cast delivers raw and authentic performances that will tug at your heartstrings. Cole Hauser portrays the struggles and triumphs of his character with incredible depth and vulnerability, making it impossible not to root for him every step of the way.

The cinematography in this film is breathtaking. Each shot is carefully crafted, capturing the essence of the small town and its inhabitants. The visuals, combined with the intimate storytelling, create a sense of nostalgia and connection that will transport you into the world of the film.

One of the standout aspects of "The Last Champion" is its powerful message of hope and redemption. The film explores themes of forgiveness, self-discovery, and the importance of community. It reminds us that it's never too late to chase our dreams and make a difference in the lives of others.
1 out of 1 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Perfect gem of a holiday classic
robincurtis629 December 2020
I watched The Last Champion over the holidays! And you should, too! With the whole family. Bravo! What a masterful achievement! Without a doubt a perfect movie. Is that possible? Yes! A feel good movie about a man who returns home and finds redemption can go wrong in so many ways. And everything about this movie goes right. It's a perfect example of less is more. So much more. The Last Champion is elegantly written. Every word of dialogue, organically composed and the acting so natural, I was mesmerized. I felt like I was eavesdropping on real people. From the locals to the supporting characters to the main character, Cole Hauser, each actor was so perfectly cast. Chops to casting director, Ronnie Yeskel! I hope the film garners Hauser a Best Actor nomination. Superbly directed and edited, I also enjoyed the music, the wrestling and the locations. Thousands of decisions were made by the creative team to create a perfect whole. Thank you. We needed The Last Champion.
3 out of 6 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Coming at the right time (Jan 2021)
miamiboggs-207-97050810 January 2021
Great movie to discover during troubled times. Redemption and forgiveness hits hard. Thinking that i would like anything with Cole Hauser as the lead. He is deep.
3 out of 7 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Excellent redemption piece!!!
actor_federman30 December 2020
The Last Champion tells a compelling comeback story that anyone can relate to. Living in the world of wrestling, The Last Champion is also built on layers of good cinematic storytelling from well written script to great performances, topped off with beautiful cinematography. Great watch for everyone in the family.
3 out of 7 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
We all need a "feel good" movie right now...this is my favorite!
ddellison-5820030 December 2020
Great story, great trailer, great actors, great inspiration...and all at a time when we need it most. The Last Champion has the "underdog fighting to win in a sport-related setting" element that I truly enjoy, but this drama strikes chords on so many levels. Whether you are a wrestling enthusiast or you love a "champion deflated by life circumstances, then defies all odds" storyline or you are just looking for an inspirational movie during which you laugh, you cry and you stand up and cheer all in the same viewing--I highly recommend this movie. The story and characters are well-developed and the acting is superb. I give The Last Champion a standing ovation!
3 out of 7 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Story. Writing. Characters. Thank you!
setheski-7717130 December 2020
We loved this film. Exactly what we needed to see. A really nice story of hope, perseverance and redemption. Cole Hauser was great as is the entire cast. Can we please get back to movies like this with stories, good writing and interesting characters!
2 out of 5 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
As a wrestler, it really hit me hard emotionally, and gave me some nostalgia
HonestRater26 April 2021
Because the sport of folkstyle wrestling has been unpopular these few decades, it's an excellent film for those who want a underdog story.
1 out of 3 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Great Movie!
srfdgy30 December 2020
If you want to watch a movie the whole family can watch. A redemption movie with great acting and an even better story...Then, this is your movie! I thoroughly enjoyed this movie! And I think you will!
1 out of 4 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Wonderful... heart warming!! We loved it!!
nmbn-8529930 December 2020
A film for everyone, every family, especially now during this difficult time!
1 out of 4 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Movie for whole family
madmikn30 December 2020
Great redemption movie. Wrestling is authentic. This is a movie for all ages with great life lessons.
1 out of 4 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
An error has occured. Please try again.

See also

Awards | FAQ | User Ratings | External Reviews | Metacritic Reviews


Recently Viewed