Film Review: Leatherheads (2008)
American football stands as the most popular, and arguably the most lucrative, professional sport in the United States today. However, this was not always the case; a century ago, professional football was struggling to find its footing and often teetered on the brink of collapse. This historical backdrop serves as the foundation for Leatherheads, a 2008 period sports comedy directed by George Clooney. The film offers a nostalgic glimpse into a time when the sport was still in its infancy, capturing both the charm and chaos of early professional football.
Set in 1925, Leatherheads revolves around the Duluth Bulldogs, a professional football team from Duluth, Minnesota. The team is led by Jimmy “Dodge” Connelly, portrayed by Clooney himself. At this time, football lacks the widespread popularity and respect; games are often held in cow pastures, with players like Dodge largely ignoring the lax rules governing play. In a bid to improve the team's dire financial situation, Dodge recruits Carter “the Bullet” Rutherford (played by John Krasinski), a star from Princeton University whose heroic exploits during World War I are expected to lend credibility and prestige to the Bulldogs. While this strategy initially brings fame and financial relief to the team, it is jeopardised by Lexie Littleton (Renee Zellweger), a reporter for the Chicago Tribune who uncovers discrepancies in Carter’s war record. As she investigates, she becomes romantically entangled with both Dodge and Carter, igniting a rivalry that complicates matters further.
The script, penned by Duncan Reilly and Rick Riley, treats the history of US professional sports with a blend of detached criticism and nostalgia, portraying the emerging world of pro football as a Wild West with few rules but plenty of fun before politics and soulless corporate capitalism took over. However, this intriguing premise is somewhat undermined by Clooney's directorial choices. In his third directorial venture, Clooney appears heavily influenced by comparisons between his screen presence and that of classic Hollywood icon Cary Grant. Consequently, he not only casts himself in the lead role but also infuses the film with elements characteristic of screwball comedies that defined Grant’s career. The result is a narrative that intertwines the struggles of a fledgling football team with a more conventional love triangle plot, peppered with slapstick humour that occasionally feels forced.
Clooney delivers a commendable performance as Dodge Connelly, showcasing his charm and comedic timing. Zellweger also shines as Lexie Littleton, bringing her usual charisma to the role. Krasinski holds his own as Carter Rutherford, effectively portraying both innocence and ambition. Despite this talented cast, their performances can only partially mitigate some of the film's conceptual flaws. The excessive length of Leatherheads detracts from its pacing, while moments where humour devolves into violence disrupt its overall tone.
Nevertheless, Leatherheads remains entertaining enough to be recommended, particularly to cinephiles who appreciate Classic Hollywood and would likely appreciate Clooney's homage to the era. The film is a light-hearted, enjoyable romp that provides a glimpse into the early days of professional football, even if it doesn't fully succeed in capturing the spirit of the times.
RATING: 5/10 (++)
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