Swimming Movie ~ Pride

Hmm, the movie critics don't seem to appreciate swimming... imdb.com/.../externalreviews With a story incapable of adding legitimate dramatic tension, Pride is left relying on sports action alone to carry the movie. But this is a swimming, and there’s just nothing exciting about watching the backstroke. First time director Sunu Gonera and cinematographer Matthew Leonetti give it a shot, with cameras above, around, and below the water during competition. It doesn’t help. It’s still just guys flailing around in the water. I’m sure it’s a thrilling sport if you’re competing in it, but don’t expect to see swim meets on ESPN any time soon. www.cinemablend.com/.../Pride-2007-2155.html After the one-hour mark, however, the script begins hitting more predictable affirmational-uplift notes, which Gonera just half-heartedly tries to freshen up. There are too many tearily triumphant moments, and the de rigeur climactic match could be more rousing. (Admittedly, competitive swimming isn't the most exciting sport in cinematic terms.) Nonetheless, pic has built up enough goodwill to keep auds stoked to the end. variety.com review More reviews: www.metacritic.com/.../pride

Hmm, the movie critics don't seem to appreciate swimming... imdb.com/.../externalreviews With a story incapable of adding legitimate dramatic tension, Pride is left relying on sports action alone to carry the movie. But this is a swimming, and there’s just nothing exciting about watching the backstroke. First time director Sunu Gonera and cinematographer Matthew Leonetti give it a shot, with cameras above, around, and below the water during competition. It doesn’t help. It’s still just guys flailing around in the water. I’m sure it’s a thrilling sport if you’re competing in it, but don’t expect to see swim meets on ESPN any time soon. www.cinemablend.com/.../Pride-2007-2155.html After the one-hour mark, however, the script begins hitting more predictable affirmational-uplift notes, which Gonera just half-heartedly tries to freshen up. There are too many tearily triumphant moments, and the de rigeur climactic match could be more rousing. (Admittedly, competitive swimming isn't the most exciting sport in cinematic terms.) Nonetheless, pic has built up enough goodwill to keep auds stoked to the end. variety.com review More reviews: www.metacritic.com/.../pride