Harvard Beats Yale 29-29

Even those who regularly skip the Super Bowl will find Kevin Rafferty's documentary about the famous titular game between the two Ivy League teams in Cambridge on November 23, 1968 something to cheer about. Both squads were undefeated, but Yale, led by legendary quarterback Brian Dowling, was the heavy favorite, and for most of the game it appeared Yale would stomp underdog Harvard. But with less than a minute left, Harvard scored sixteen points to close with a tie. For the Crimson, it was a miracle finish; for the Bulldogs, a nightmare succession of penalties and blunders. Raw footage of the original game featuring Don Gillis' play-by-play commentary is combined with the recollections of nearly 50 players from the two squads (including Tommy Lee Jones), offering interesting perspectives while also adding a genuine you-are-there feel to the proceedings. Much more than a not-so-instant replay, Harvard Beats Yale 29-29 is an engaging documentary, a cultural time capsule that features a group of articulate, aging athletes who will prove interesting company even to non-jocks. Recommended. [Note: DVD extras include 73 minutes of additional interview clips not included in the film, and trailers. Bottom line: a solid extras package for a fine gridiron doc.] (F. Swietek)