NOW IN THEATERS! Director Rod Lurie brings The Senior to the screen with the backing of Angel Studios, delivering an inspiring story rooted in real life. The film puts the spotlight on Michael Chiklis in a powerful role that balances both physical grit and emotional depth.
The story begins with Mike Flynt (Michael Chiklis), a former college football player who carries with him the regret of not completing his senior year of college football. His downfall was his anger issues, which always seemed to end in a brawl. Now, in his late fifties, Mike is a blue-collar working man in his hometown, and the loss of that final season of football has become a lifelong burden.
At a reunion with old teammates, one of them challenges him—if the dream still burns, why not try again? The question plants a seed that quickly grows, and without consulting his wife, Eileen (Mary Stuart Masterson), Mike learns he has one year of eligibility left and decides to pursue his college degree and try out for the football team, now coached by Sam Weston (Rob Corddry).
As Mike attempts to prove himself to the coach, he also has to prove himself to his youthful teammates, wife, daughter, and estranged son, Micah (Brandon Flynn). No one thinks an old man can not only make the team, but also come out of the season without serious injury.
“…a former college football player who carries with him the regret of not completing his senior year.”
Just when you thought you heard it all, the true story of Mike Flynt comes to us courtesy of director Rod Lurie and Angel Studios. I have to admit, when I first saw the trailer for The Senior, my first thought was, “You have to be kidding me.” I can buy an old guy pitching in the minors as a rookie, but football? But it is true, and it is plausible. So, no spoilers here.
At its heart, The Senior is about forgiveness and second chances. We see Mike struggle with memories of his hard-nosed, brutal father. Fearful of his father, he then used the same brutal techniques on his son, Micah, who chose to break the cycle and leave to become a professor at the very school Mike is playing for. There is no better message than forgiveness in today’s divisive climate, as it shows us what bitterness can do when not dealt with personally.
The Senior rests squarely on the shoulders of Michael Chiklis as Mike. The role is both physically and emotionally challenging, and Chiklis is up for the task. He’s likable, and when he comes face-to-face with his past, he’s sympathetic as well. Everything Angel Studios needs to tell an inspiring true-life story.
Lastly, the football footage is exceptional. Not that I know a lot about how football movies are shot, but Lurie brings us every catch, tackle, and touchdown worthy of the game. In the end, The Senior is another inspiring story with a lesson to tell from the folks at Angel Studios.
"…There is no better message than forgiveness in today's divisive climate."
