While some praise the film for its sports drama formula and star power, others find it sentimental and predictable.
The film follows the true-life story of the University of Washington eight-oared rowing crew that represented the United States in rowing at the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin. It centers around the main character, Joe Rantz, and his journey as part of the team.
Critics note that the film adheres closely to the sports drama formula, which can make it feel sentimental and predictable. However, they also acknowledge that there is still an audience for this type of film, particularly those who enjoy inspirational sports stories.
Callum Turner, who portrays Joe Rantz, is praised for his star power and performance. Critics highlight his ability to capture the essence of the character and bring him to life on screen. Additionally, Joel Edgerton‘s performance is also lauded.
The screenplay, written by Mark L. Smith, is based on the nonfiction book by Daniel James Brown. Some critics feel that the script could have delved deeper into the characters and their emotional journeys, while others appreciate its faithfulness to the source material.
As for the direction by George Clooney, opinions are divided. Some reviewers commend his handling of the story and his ability to create compelling visuals. However, there are also those who find the film too square for the Oscars, suggesting that Clooney may have played it safe with his directorial choices.
“The Boys in the Boat” had its world premiere in Los Angeles on December 11, 2023, and is scheduled to be released by Amazon MGM Studios in the United States on December 25, 2023. The film is rated PG-13 for language and smoking.
Watch The Boys In The Boat (2023) LA Premiere Interviews
Overall, while “The Boys in the Boat” may not break new ground in terms of storytelling, it offers a compelling and inspirational sports drama for those who enjoy this genre. The performances, particularly by Callum Turner, and the direction by George Clooney add depth to the film, making it worth a watch for fans of true-life stories and sports dramas.
