Under the guidance of their tough but fair coach Al Ulbrickson (Joel Edgerton), they overcome personal hardships, class prejudices, and political tensions to become the best crew in the country and challenge the Nazi regime on their home turf.
The making of a team
The film focuses on the story of Joe Rantz (Callum Turner), a shy and lonely orphan who left his abusive family at a young age and worked his way through college. He joins the rowing team as a way to pay his tuition and finds a new sense of belonging and purpose among his teammates. He also falls in love with Joyce (Lily James), a sweet and supportive girl who encourages him to pursue his dreams.
The film depicts the rigorous training and fierce competition that the rowers face, as well as the camaraderie and friendship that they develop. The film also highlights the role of George Pocock (Peter Guinness), a British-born boatbuilder who crafts the shells that the team uses and imparts his wisdom and philosophy of rowing to the boys. He teaches them the importance of trust, harmony, and rhythm in achieving the perfect stroke.
The road to Berlin
The film builds up to the climactic race at the Berlin Olympics, where the team faces off against the elite crews from Europe, especially Germany, which is determined to showcase its superiority and propaganda under the watchful eye of Adolf Hitler (Daniel Philpott). The film contrasts the dark and oppressive atmosphere of Nazi Germany with the bright and hopeful spirit of the American team, who represent the ideals of democracy and freedom.
The film also features a brief appearance by Jesse Owens (Jyuddah Jaymes), the legendary African-American sprinter who won four gold medals at the same Olympics and defied the racial discrimination and hatred of the Nazis. He befriends the rowers and shares his motivation for running, which is to prove his worth to his own country rather than to his enemies.
The verdict
The Boys in the Boat is a well-crafted and uplifting film that celebrates the power of perseverance, teamwork, and courage. The film boasts impressive production values, such as the authentic costumes and sets, the sweeping cinematography, and the stirring score. The film also benefits from the solid performances of the cast, especially Turner, who portrays Joe with a mix of vulnerability and determination, and Edgerton, who brings a gruff but warm presence to the coach.
However, the film also suffers from some flaws, such as the predictable and formulaic plot, the lack of depth and nuance in the characters, and the heavy-handed and sentimental tone. The film does not offer much new or original insight into the historical and social context of the story, nor does it explore the complex and conflicting emotions and motivations of the protagonists. The film also relies too much on clichés and tropes of the sports genre, such as the montages, the voice-overs, and the slow-motion shots.
The Boys in the Boat is a decent and enjoyable film that delivers a satisfying and inspiring story of triumph over adversity. However, it is also a conventional and safe film that does not challenge or surprise the audience with anything fresh or innovative.
