A true story from the American sports world in the early part of the second half of the twentieth century. A story about how Jesus Christ changed hearts and minds, and how this bore fruit for several generations to come.

The year 1973 marks a turning point, when a law ending racial segregation was passed in the U.S. In the state of Alabama, talented high school football player Tony Nathan and other African American students are integrated into a predominantly white football team.

It was a time of racial unrest, and football coach Tandy Gerelds did everything he could to prevent racial tensions from spilling over among the players. As part of these efforts, he allows Chaplain Hank Erwin to address the team as a motivational speaker.

A real change takes place within the team. After Hank’s words, more than 40 players—nearly the entire team—dedicate their lives to Jesus Christ, and their collective spiritual transformation has a profound impact on the coach, the school, and the entire surrounding community. Even fierce sports rivals become close friends.

Aside from the standard Protestant movie clichés, this film—especially in its second half—has a good pace, depth, and a powerful impact. A major factor in this is that it is based on real events that took place half a century ago in the U.S. state of Alabama.

Drama / Sports

USA, 2015, 123 min

Crew: Andrew Erwin, Jon Erwin;

Music: Paul Mills;

Cast: Sean Astin, C. Thomas Howell, Jon Voight, Virginia Williams, Brando Eaton, Sherri Shepherd, Rhoda Griffis, Steven Chester Prince;

Parents Guide

A prolonged kiss between lovers.

A street fight between Black and White men. A broken window and threats. A brutal tackle on a player during a game. A girl showing signs of abuse.

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