On L List of Movie Reviews

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The Longest Yard (1974)

Rate: 6
Viewed: 10/15

10/15: Burt Reynolds has charisma, and charisma goes a long way.

It's what happened for The Longest Yard. As a football picture, it's not great, runs too long, and reminds me of the gridiron scenes in M*A*S*H which were filmed four years earlier. The plot doesn't work well, either. Also, there are many product placements during the game, making me think the film was meant to be a long-ass commercial. In fact, that's the trouble with the NFL nowadays.

Speaking of domestic violence, it's interesting that the opening scene showed an ex-football player beating up a woman. I guess nothing has changed. Regardless, Burt Reynolds has his moments, but apart from him, there's nothing to like about the film. Meanwhile, it's impossible to root for the convicts against guards. Why would I do that?

All in all, The Longest Yard is a fumble.

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