The Blind Side
The Blind Side is a spot to the left of a football quarterback that makes the job of a left tackle so important – just ask former Toronto Argonaut Joe Theismann who in 1985 while QB-ing the Washington Redskins was blindsided so hard that it ended his brilliant career. The blind side is clearly also an area of subsidized housing in Memphis that is invisible to residents of tonier suburbs of that Tennessee city. Those projects were the sometimes home of a hulking 17 year old named Michael Oher (Quinton Aaron) who almost dismissed a golden opportunity handed to him when he got accepted against all odds into a really good school. Thankfully due to some observant teachers and particularly the kindness of the firebrand named Leigh Anne Touhy (a red hot- actually blonde hot - Sandra Bullock) Michael Oher of the Baltimore Ravens in his rookie year is one of the most punishing linemen in the NFL today. Touhy and her husband Sean (an impressive first effort for country star Tim McGraw) took in an effectively homeless Oher and along with tutor Miss Sue (Kathy Bates) helped him overcome insurmountable odds, no small feat for a behemoth who initially refused to come out of his shell. Based on the true story chronicles in Michael Lewis's 2006 book, the Touhy’s are rounded our by daughter Collins (Lily Collins) and son S.J. (Jae Head) their youngest child and a constant scene stealer. Hard to believe that this wholesome, loving and loveable family should be vetted by the NCAA for their integrity but that’s what happens. Get ready to be blind sided by this sweet movie. Sure it’s predictable, most predictable is the number of times you’ll be reaching for a hankie, which is often.