Sports fans understand the agony of defeat and the thrill of victory but perhaps not as intensely as four hardcore fans featured in this program that concentrates on the 2017 Philadelphia Eagles NFL football team, culminating with the underdogs beating the mighty New England Patriots in Superbowl 52. Opening footage and comments assert that Philadelphia is a rough and tumble blue collar city with much of the fan base exemplifying this description.
The first fan we meet is Shirley, an effervescent and passionate personality who calls local sports radio shows to loudly express her views, worries, feelings, and frustrations. Next, we visit Barry who gave up Florida retirement plans to have an amazing addition built on his home that rivals many professional sports bars. Dubbed “The Locker Room,” the expansive space houses five big screen televisions, a huge bar, buffet tables, comfortable seating, and loads of football memorabilia. On game days, Barry in full Eagle regalia, hosts family and friends who hoot and holler along with their host. Low key but no less passionate is Jesse whose young son is on the autism spectrum. Jesse uses football to teach his son cheers and songs and as the season progresses, Jesse deals with his father’s terminal brain cancer. Finally, we observe Bryant who posts YouTube videos for his followers who apparently appreciate his profane ranting and shouting. Bryant laments that some of his anger may come from not having a girlfriend to share his life with.
The chronologically arranged program, with no voiceover narration, lets viewers experience both the gritty side of Philadelphia and the rabid fandom of Eagles supporters who we see tailgating before games as police officers keep watch over the raucous crowd. Hopes run high with the team rolling along with only one loss, until quarterback Carson Wentz sustains a season ending injury, much to the visible despair of fans. But surprisingly, the back-up quarterback rises to the occasion and with two minutes left on the clock, throws a game winning touchdown pass to win the Super Bowl. Wisely, the program doesn’t overdose on game footage nor team members in a successful quest to underscore how sports fill a void and perhaps lend a purpose to those who live and die with game results. Whether this film finds an audience in other football crazed cities, such as Green Bay and Chicago, is anyone’s guess but it will be devoured among Philly fans who will not mind reliving the magical 2017 season. Aud: P. Recommended.