The Rivals

Building on the fact that high school football rivalries often form the ties that bind generations and neighbors in many communities, filmmaker Kirk Wolfinger's Smithsonian Channel-aired documentary examines the sport as a shared passion and way of life in two Maine towns during the 2006–07 season. The team in Rumford (known as the Mountain Valley Falcons) advances to the state finals most years—a source of deeply felt pride in a blue-collar town dependent on a dying paper mill, with little else to brag about. When a new rival appears in the form of the upscale, college-prep Cape Elizabeth High School, which is short on tradition but blessed with a scrappy and determined coach, the stage is set for a major culture clash as the all-important showdown looms. The film shows Rumford gearing up for the big day with fundraisers and pep rallies, while Cape Elizabeth is more laidback—even having to import cheerleaders. The outcome leads to some tense moments, which serve to build even more suspense and interest in the following year's rematch. As interviews with players, parents, coaches, and boosters make clear, football is a strong social force. Offering an entertaining slice of Americana, this is highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (S. Rees)