Undefeated

Filmmakers Dan Lindsay and T.J. Martin's Oscar-winning sports documentary follows the fortunes of an inner-city West Memphis high school football team—the Manassas Tigers—during the 2009 season, as they reverse their reputation as sure losers and overcome incredible obstacles to become a serious challenger for a district (and maybe even state) title. Undefeated isn't really an accurate title: the Tigers actually lose their opening games badly before turning things around, but while their on-field performances are a significant part of the story, the film's real emphasis is on the players themselves, and remarkable coach Bill Courtney, a paunchy, gregarious lumberyard owner who volunteers to rebuild the team, hoping to revive the spirit of the school's blighted neighborhood. The spotlight falls on three particular players: O.C. Brown, who must improve his grades in order to get into college; hot-tempered Chavis Daniels, fresh from a stint in juvenile lockup; and bright, amiable Montrail “Money" Brown, whose season is threatened by a serious injury. Revealing moments occur throughout the film, which culminates in a surprising mix of uplift and reality, underscoring the fact that victory takes various forms. A compelling slice of inner-city life with an affectingly hopeful message, this award-winning documentary is recommended. [Note: DVD/Blu-ray extras include audio commentary by co-directors Daniel Lindsay and T.J. Martin, deleted scenes (14 min.), a "making-of" featurette (9 min.), and trailers. Bottom line: a solid extras package for this Oscar-winning doc.] (F. Swietek)