The Blind Side: Evolution of a Game is a book by Michael Lewis. Yes, it does feature Michael Oher, the guy who everyone came to know and love as we watched him overcome obstacles after some care from the Tuohy family, but only as a concrete example of a left tackle, which the position that the book examines as Lewis analyzes the changes in the game over the years.
My husband has read many of Lewis’ books, including this one. They are investigative and informative. Because of this, Terry flatly refused to watch the movie with me. There’s been no negotiation, in spite of the fact that he likes Sandra Bullock and is generally not at all reluctant to view romantic comedies with me. Why the staunch avoidance of this popular movie, then?
“They took a good book about football and made a chick flick out of it. That’s stupid.”
Last month, Terry and I saw Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy speak at a benefit dinner for a local homeless shelter. They were funny and entertaining and inspirational. I thought he’d change his mind, because he liked hearing their story, so I put it at the top of my Netflix queue, but I still ended up watching it alone.
That’s okay. I’m glad I watched it, and I’m actually glad that I waited until I saw the real people, and heard more of their story, because I think it made the movie even more meaningful. I liked the movie. Loved it. It was a good story, and the message is truly inspirational.
As my husband points out, the book and the movie are two totally different animals. The success of the book brought the Tuohy family’s story to light, and the movie was made. So — book/movie — no comparison (in my mind the movie is far superior, since I tried to read the book, but could care less about how the game of football has changed or the role of the left tackle). In Terry’s opinion, the book is far superior and the movie shouldn’t even use that title.
However, the “real” story behind The Blind Side can be found in Sean and Leanne Tuohy’s book, In a Heartbeat (linked to my review). First I heard the Tuohy’s speak, then I watched the movie, then I listened to the audiobook that explained their practice of “cheerful giving.” It’s all changed the way I look at others and the way I think about the difference that one person can make in another’s life (and that person could be me!).
If I’m not the only person left on earth who hasn’t seen The Blind Side, I urge you to watch it. Sandra Bullock deserved the Academy Award she won for best actress, it’s pretty family friendly (for tweens and teens for sure), and it’s a great movie. But if you want to know the “real story,” be sure to check out In a Heartbeat.
Jennifer Donovan and her husband frequently disagree. Since they are both first-borns, neither of them are quick to let go of their opinions. Read more about the mysteries of her marriage at her blog Snapshot.
Nope, I might be that last person on earth! My husband watched it and said it was outstanding, but I just haven’t seen it yet, myself. With this and the book review, you’re definitely making a strong case! 🙂
I’ve watched the movie two or three times at least and I love it! I’m off to read your book review now.
The movie really makes it seem like a one-time thing, but what impressed me about the book is you can see how it came about that they would open up their homes and lives to a random kid. They didn’t just stop because they saw him walking on the road one night (although that makes good movie!).
Nope, I’ve never seen that one either. But my husband has . . . go figure. I’m not really into feel good stories on screen – I’d rather read the stories if they’re from real life. Good review!
The movie is definitely a “feel good” movie, but the tone of the book is more reflective and informative.
OK…I am in that not watched boat. I even received it for Easter last year. That is no excuse! I need to watch it.
I’m not feeling so bad now. I really thought I was one of THE LAST people to see it.