98 reviews
Well done biography with touch of eschatology and Shakespearean soul searching. Neal McDounough performs well.
It was apparently a shocker to a few of the reviewers here, but Greater includes some Christian themes in it. If that offends you, then you probably wouldn't like this movie. If it does not offend you, then you should enjoy it.
The movie is well produced, the acting is good, it is well paced, and it is definitely inspiring. And it all based fairly closely on real events. I'd give it 7 out of 10 for production value and acting, and then bump it up to 8 because it was enjoyable and inspiring.
This is mostly a football biography movie, but adds in a Christian theme in the second half. I think they only people that won't enjoy this movie are people that dislike or resent the Christian content.
The movie is well produced, the acting is good, it is well paced, and it is definitely inspiring. And it all based fairly closely on real events. I'd give it 7 out of 10 for production value and acting, and then bump it up to 8 because it was enjoyable and inspiring.
This is mostly a football biography movie, but adds in a Christian theme in the second half. I think they only people that won't enjoy this movie are people that dislike or resent the Christian content.
- kjharbour1
- Jan 23, 2021
- Permalink
I grew up in Harrison and I was so touched by this film. Growing up with the real Marty, I saw a soft spoken and gentle soul. I never knew the hardships of his family dynamics. I cried and laughed through the whole film and was moved that this family opened up to be transparent for the world to see. When leaving the theater, most were crying and saying that they loved it. From a retired high school counselor's view, this is a must see for our youth. The struggles they deal with need to be seen as motivation and not stumbling blocks. This is an encouraging message to all! Brandon not only worked hard academically and athletically, he stood firm in his values and morals. I hope this message resonates loud to the audience to not be afraid of going against what is popular for the greater good.
- sallyhennard
- Aug 28, 2016
- Permalink
- Marlon1057
- Apr 27, 2021
- Permalink
This movie popped up on Netflix at first glance I thought it was going to be another low rated sappy sports film, but I thought I would give it a look. First off, I don't know how anyone would give the film a rating of Less than 10. Yes, agreed, it was a bit low budget, but the message the film portrays is a bit different than some of the sappy made for TV type sports films. I had never heard about Brian Bulsworth until seeing this film, and am glad I watched it. So what if it has a spiritual twist, it seems it was true, so why wouldn't that be shown in the film. Goes to show everyone that that flashy kid that gets everything handed to them can learn a thing or two from Brandon. Highly recommended.
- asupolygraph
- Aug 29, 2016
- Permalink
There are several parallels with the walk-on movie, Rudy, made about Notre Dame. This one is just as good, and maybe even a tad better due to the ultimate question that is asked about Brandon Bulsworth's life and death. The big question, of course, is posed by an old man in the film; Is the universe a cold and indifferent place? Or does God have a master plan for us? Is life a series of random events and harshness? Or do all things happen for a reason due to God's plan for us? Although I do not agree with the latter, I respect the thoughts of the former and those who believe in them. Decide for yourself.
- arthur_tafero
- May 22, 2022
- Permalink
This is based upon a true story
The story will open with the death of Brandon Burlsworth although we won't see any of the accident he was in. We see the beginnings of funeral arrangements for him and why his brother Marty (Neal McDonough ) cannot understand why this happened.
Brandon Burlsworth (Christopher Severio) had always wanted to be a Arkansas Razorback football player and he had to try harder than most to achieve it even when it was always in doubt, mostly because of his weight. High School Coach Bender (Fredric Lehne) called him a "diamond in the rough" and hoped someone would notice. His brother Marty was 17-yrs older than Brandon and many thought he was Brandon's father. Marty wanted the best for Brandon but really didn't believe Brandon would achieve his dreams.
This really isn't a football story It's a story about determination, faith and trust. Christian undertones dominate this film, but is not preachy. We see a little football, of course, but we mostly see the struggles Brandon went thru at different stages to achieve his dreams and never gave up and always tried to do better. We will see Brandon take a lot of abuse from just about everyone especially from the players he hoped to play with. Some of this will tear at your heart. Oh, and have box of Kleenex handy.
It was nice to see Neal McDonough finally in a good guy role. He is a great, perhaps underrated, actor even though he plays the bad guys a lot. He always gives a very good performance and he did in here. Notables: Nick Searcy as The Farmer who tries to shake Marty's faith and it is fragile at best; Michael Parks as Leo, Brandon and Marty's alcoholic father; Leslie Easterbrook as Brandon and Marthy's adoring mother; and Mark Dobies as Coach Nutt, the coach in Brandon's senior year and he convinces the new coach not to go into a rebuild program and not to give up on this team as things will change.
At the end there will be statements about how Brandon Burlsworth's life impacts many today. This is a very uplifting and impressive story about a young very impressive young man. Christopher Severio has done an excellent job portraying Brandon Burlsworth. Kudos. (9/10)
Violence: Yes. Football scenes. Sex: No. Nudity: No. Humor: Yes, at times. Language: No Rating: A
The story will open with the death of Brandon Burlsworth although we won't see any of the accident he was in. We see the beginnings of funeral arrangements for him and why his brother Marty (Neal McDonough ) cannot understand why this happened.
Brandon Burlsworth (Christopher Severio) had always wanted to be a Arkansas Razorback football player and he had to try harder than most to achieve it even when it was always in doubt, mostly because of his weight. High School Coach Bender (Fredric Lehne) called him a "diamond in the rough" and hoped someone would notice. His brother Marty was 17-yrs older than Brandon and many thought he was Brandon's father. Marty wanted the best for Brandon but really didn't believe Brandon would achieve his dreams.
This really isn't a football story It's a story about determination, faith and trust. Christian undertones dominate this film, but is not preachy. We see a little football, of course, but we mostly see the struggles Brandon went thru at different stages to achieve his dreams and never gave up and always tried to do better. We will see Brandon take a lot of abuse from just about everyone especially from the players he hoped to play with. Some of this will tear at your heart. Oh, and have box of Kleenex handy.
It was nice to see Neal McDonough finally in a good guy role. He is a great, perhaps underrated, actor even though he plays the bad guys a lot. He always gives a very good performance and he did in here. Notables: Nick Searcy as The Farmer who tries to shake Marty's faith and it is fragile at best; Michael Parks as Leo, Brandon and Marty's alcoholic father; Leslie Easterbrook as Brandon and Marthy's adoring mother; and Mark Dobies as Coach Nutt, the coach in Brandon's senior year and he convinces the new coach not to go into a rebuild program and not to give up on this team as things will change.
At the end there will be statements about how Brandon Burlsworth's life impacts many today. This is a very uplifting and impressive story about a young very impressive young man. Christopher Severio has done an excellent job portraying Brandon Burlsworth. Kudos. (9/10)
Violence: Yes. Football scenes. Sex: No. Nudity: No. Humor: Yes, at times. Language: No Rating: A
- classicsoncall
- Feb 22, 2022
- Permalink
Have to say I really liked this movie. It is a sad story but a really has a positive message throughout. Even to this day his name lives on and inspires people all over the country. Such a good movie and well worth watching.
- brett-76260
- May 21, 2021
- Permalink
Desperately wanted to be "inspirational" but ended up being predictable and cliche. The real story was probably pretty inspiring. Maybe it was the writers or the production, but something was just off. Seemed forced.
Being a massive Razorback fan, and having played for the Hogs, I was really excited about this film.
Unfortunately, this film was forced, the chemistry was off, and the production was poor. I understand the need for creating adversity so that the main character can overcome and win; but none of the coaches, that were portrayed, acted this way towards him or others for that matter. Therefore Brandon's story alone is what made him successful; not conflicted adversity.
He was like so many of us, he overcame "ODDs" and it was because of his determination and work ethic. That conflict alone made him special. So many of us allow our demons to beat us; but Brandon didn't.
This film could have been so much better, and I wish others could truly understand and appreciate Brandon's story.
Unfortunately, this film was forced, the chemistry was off, and the production was poor. I understand the need for creating adversity so that the main character can overcome and win; but none of the coaches, that were portrayed, acted this way towards him or others for that matter. Therefore Brandon's story alone is what made him successful; not conflicted adversity.
He was like so many of us, he overcame "ODDs" and it was because of his determination and work ethic. That conflict alone made him special. So many of us allow our demons to beat us; but Brandon didn't.
This film could have been so much better, and I wish others could truly understand and appreciate Brandon's story.
I'll be quick, this is my first time reviewing a movie.
Although I often considered doing it, I never felt as compelled to do it than right now after watching Greater.
The reason is simply that Brandon Bulsworth's story is inspiring and was an amazing material for a great sports movie. However, the last 15 minutes is akin to be in a church during a sermon.
So - I recommend watching this film for the story and camaraderie - but be aware that it's blatant religious propaganda. I would be scared to show this to my children as it would seriously allow them to start thinking that they "are too small to see the bigger picture".
The whole point of the movie is to make a metaphor of life with what happens on a football pitch.
I.e. The players only see so close to them but the coach sees the bigger picture. Human's only narrowly see in front of them but god sees the bigger picture.
I really enjoyed the viewing experience until this ruined it for me.
P.S. If you are religious - go for it - you will love it.
Although I often considered doing it, I never felt as compelled to do it than right now after watching Greater.
The reason is simply that Brandon Bulsworth's story is inspiring and was an amazing material for a great sports movie. However, the last 15 minutes is akin to be in a church during a sermon.
So - I recommend watching this film for the story and camaraderie - but be aware that it's blatant religious propaganda. I would be scared to show this to my children as it would seriously allow them to start thinking that they "are too small to see the bigger picture".
The whole point of the movie is to make a metaphor of life with what happens on a football pitch.
I.e. The players only see so close to them but the coach sees the bigger picture. Human's only narrowly see in front of them but god sees the bigger picture.
I really enjoyed the viewing experience until this ruined it for me.
P.S. If you are religious - go for it - you will love it.
- harold-verhagen
- Jan 13, 2017
- Permalink
The movie GREATER was better than I ever could've imagined. Chris Severio did an excellent job portraying Brandon, Leslie Easterbrook was amazing at playing Barbara, and Neal McDonough gave his best performance to date as Marty Burlsworth. Nick Searcy is the dark horse of the movie - trying to make Marty (Neal McDonough) doubt his faith in God - allowing this to happen to his brother. Even if you don't like football, this story is one that proves that hard work pays off. More importantly, it is about faith and why bad things happen to good people. You will cry, you will laugh, but most of all, you will leave wanting to be a better person yourself.
- hagoodphotography
- Aug 25, 2016
- Permalink
This movie is a bit cheesy and not at al very realistic, but I sure enjoyed it beginning to end snd would recommend it to anyone wanting to see a feel good achievement movie.
This story is not a football story. It's not about what a great football program Arkansas had. It's the story of America. It's fighting thru the pain, thru the odds, thru the insults, thru the losses and gritting your teeth and getting back in there...
I knew nothing of Brandon, nor Arkansas but reading through the comments of people that did or do, makes me believe the actor that played him really captured his essence and those who know what happened must do as Brandon did; "Grit your teeth and get back in there" ... A truly wonderful movie and I feel blessed to have seen it...
I knew nothing of Brandon, nor Arkansas but reading through the comments of people that did or do, makes me believe the actor that played him really captured his essence and those who know what happened must do as Brandon did; "Grit your teeth and get back in there" ... A truly wonderful movie and I feel blessed to have seen it...
- brooksrob1
- Apr 17, 2020
- Permalink
A sports-biography, about an American footballer who came over many obstacles to become a successful player in college level league. Being a fat and youngest in his family, he had to go a long way to become what he wanted to be. This is an inspiring film for sports aspirants. Decently made film by an unknown director with good performances in it.
Whatever it is, or you call it, for me it is a B movie, a fine one. Neal McDonough was the most recognisable face around and he was the backbone of the film after the lead character. The story was told from his perspective and was a bit emotional film than I thought. I don't know this game at all, but I can know what's going on, particularly hard working people to achieve some big in their life.
It is not a popular American film among Americans itself, but if you had heard about it and looking for a confident boost, this will do fine. Usually people would say a film like this is a must see, but I think it is worth a watch rather to call it not to be missed.
7/10
Whatever it is, or you call it, for me it is a B movie, a fine one. Neal McDonough was the most recognisable face around and he was the backbone of the film after the lead character. The story was told from his perspective and was a bit emotional film than I thought. I don't know this game at all, but I can know what's going on, particularly hard working people to achieve some big in their life.
It is not a popular American film among Americans itself, but if you had heard about it and looking for a confident boost, this will do fine. Usually people would say a film like this is a must see, but I think it is worth a watch rather to call it not to be missed.
7/10
- Reno-Rangan
- May 13, 2017
- Permalink
WOW- the true story of Brandon Burlsworth is compelling and one that deserves to be seen. Bring your family. Hard work and persistence pays off for Brandon as this unlikely football star gets drafted by the Indianapolis Colts.
You will laugh and you will cry. If you like "Rudy" and Frank Capra pictures. You will love Greater.
The movie takes place in Arkansas. A poor kid with a dream to play for the Arkansas Razorbacks. The football scenes are good. The character development of his teammates move you from anger and frustration to joy and inspiration.
You will laugh and you will cry. If you like "Rudy" and Frank Capra pictures. You will love Greater.
The movie takes place in Arkansas. A poor kid with a dream to play for the Arkansas Razorbacks. The football scenes are good. The character development of his teammates move you from anger and frustration to joy and inspiration.
- rolf-19580
- Aug 25, 2016
- Permalink
- SillyGayBoy
- Jul 12, 2024
- Permalink
The movie flow, acting, story line, actors, and levels of inference are all spot on. Is it the "perfect" movie? Of course not, but in the middle of all the overwhelming garbage being spewed out in the last decade, this is a breath of fresh air.
Truly, in a time when the movies being made from the big studios seem to be ripe with blood, guts, sex, ghosts, demons, and mindless trash, this movie reminds us that the best stories are the real ones.
I don't intend to go line by line critiquing the movie, just to give this a simple recommendation to go see it. No heavy handed words needed.
Well done to all involved in this production, my wife and I really enjoyed it.
Truly, in a time when the movies being made from the big studios seem to be ripe with blood, guts, sex, ghosts, demons, and mindless trash, this movie reminds us that the best stories are the real ones.
I don't intend to go line by line critiquing the movie, just to give this a simple recommendation to go see it. No heavy handed words needed.
Well done to all involved in this production, my wife and I really enjoyed it.
- pamyers-90771
- Aug 25, 2016
- Permalink
Yes, it is a Christian film, know that going in, I did, but the heavy handed Christian aspect and all the "God is great" stuff thrown at you drags the movie. Take all that out and this would be a 9, and one of the best sports movies ever.
The story itself is almost hard to believe but it's true. He was a walk on at Arkansas and made the team as a sophomore and was eventually drafted by the Colts. Amazing story and should be an inspiration to many. I can see a lot of kids seeing this and being inspired.
The movie was done well and well cast, in fact, I was a little surprised at how well done it was. I absolute hate the "he's dead but it's okay because he's in heaven now" theme which is a really awful message to toss in there and it was numerous times. Not everyone believes what Christians believe. You can still have a "Christian movie" without nonsense like this.
But aside from that, great sports movie.
The story itself is almost hard to believe but it's true. He was a walk on at Arkansas and made the team as a sophomore and was eventually drafted by the Colts. Amazing story and should be an inspiration to many. I can see a lot of kids seeing this and being inspired.
The movie was done well and well cast, in fact, I was a little surprised at how well done it was. I absolute hate the "he's dead but it's okay because he's in heaven now" theme which is a really awful message to toss in there and it was numerous times. Not everyone believes what Christians believe. You can still have a "Christian movie" without nonsense like this.
But aside from that, great sports movie.
- On_The_Mark
- Sep 20, 2021
- Permalink
First of all I would like to say that this review is not an attack on any of the real life characters within the story. I'm sure they are all nice people, and Brandon certainly seemed to change peoples lives for the better. He also battled adversity from an early age which again is to be commended. My problem is purely with the film itself, which I realized too late (about 40 mins into the film) that there were Christian undertones running right through the core of it, and certainly the last part of the film felt like I should have been sitting in a hall with a preacher in front of me. I am a Christian myself, God does not offend me in any way, nor his many followers. But what does offend me is the feeling of being duped into being given a sermon about "Gods will" every couple of minutes. I also feel that had the makers not concentrated so much on "spreading the word", and centered on the story of a sporting underdog done great, it would have been a good film. To call this film the greatest sporting film ever is quite frankly absurd, at best it is a TV movie for a rainy Monday afternoon, and that is if there is absolutely nothing else on. As a person, Brandon left his mark on this world which few of us get to do, but I personally feel that the film could have been so much better.
don't watch it if you're already sad or depressed . this biography is the most saddest biography ever , you will feel a pure melancholia. this movie will kill all the fairy tales and heroic stories you ever heard. it is about a pure pragmatic movie derived from a pure pragmatic life . if you'll learn one thing of this movie it will be " life is always unfair " even if give some luck to some people . life is gonna hit you till your knees . it is the first review i have ever write and it will be the last one , i just write it to alert depressed and sad people who search for one more inspiring story to watch that movie. it simply will take all your believes even if you believe in god or in discipline,perseverance and persistence . it is a unnecessary movie you will get nothing more than sadness so move on to another movie .
- yousry_woodman
- Jan 18, 2017
- Permalink