The film industry is full of inspirational sports films, particularly those that feature underdogs who overcome hardships. However, up until now, there haven't been many movies about rowing groups. “The Boys in the Boat”, directed by George Clooney, is a depiction of a Depression-era tale of a team of underprivileged but determined young boys who achieved recognition when they were selected to represent the United States in the Olympic Games in 1936 in Berlin.

The film is undoubtedly a fantastic tale that will make you want to get up and applaud. This article will review one of the most impressive masterpieces directed by the talented filmmaker George Clooney. So, without any further delay, let's get started!

What's the Story of "The Boys in the Boat"?

This movie is based on Daniel James Brown's nonfiction book. The book is more interesting to read than to watch. This sports film starts with an old guy staring at a small child rowing alone on the seas of Washington, USA. After that, it goes back to the early 1930s, however, after that we first meet Joe Rantz, a young student at college who is interested in joining the College of Washington's rowing squad.

He has been doing this since he recently discovered that he would be unable to pay for tuition for a very long time, and it is his means of continuing his education while also obtaining accommodation.

Though every nuance is lost in the badly spoken tale, this is supposedly meant to represent a historical portrayal of the Great Depression's aftermath and how many people ended up falling into destitution, with Joe trying to study in candlelight while homeless. Joe makes the squad and starts training under his trainer, Al Ulbrickson, who wants to compete in the Berlin Olympics in 1936.

"The Boys in the Boat" neglects to reveal the characters' true identities. It gives the impression that the director is more concerned with the Boat than the rowers since he concentrates too much on it. In contrast to a well-balanced film such as "The Novice," this film struggles to portray personalities as well as the sport.

It lacks heart despite its attempts to be an inspirational sports drama. The character backstories, such as Rantz's relationship, seem rushed and underdeveloped. Regardless of Edgerton's best efforts, the movie lacks coherence. You may not recognize everybody in the grand final race, and there is no sense of companionship. The film moves slowly enough to obscure the one brief moment of bonding by the fireplace.

Viewers’ Thoughts

The film does not do justice if it is trying to depict something about inequality and history. It skims over several complicated topics and then goes on without delving further. For instance, tensions build and then vanish, like when a character shames Joe for lacking wealth before disclosing his difficulties. The effect of poverty is awkwardly downplayed in the movie, giving the impression that desperation is a decision.

It conveys an argument that it wants to consider the details of the period, but it only gives it a fleeting glance. The final odd appearances, which include historical personalities, emphasize how fragmented the entire piece is. The storytelling lacks patience. The guys would lose every race if their rowing were as bad as the movie's presentation of its theme.

Experts Review: The Boys in the Boat: Not Clooney's Lowest, But Far From Praise-Worthy!

Based in the viewers thoughts and our experts’ analysis, “The Boys in the Boat” is a movie that is easy to forget despite its remarkable tale. The script is cliched, and the direction is pointless. Apart from a few excellent performances, the only noteworthy aspect is that it highlights how crucial compelling storytelling is.

In this regard, it would be better if a director like Soderbergh directed it. Unlike Clooney, Soderbergh is more skilled at capturing character-focused storylines and recognizes the value of filming in an actual location. Though their efforts will live on in memory, the movie does not fully tell the narrative of Rantz and the rowing squad.

The Bottom Line!

To sum up, we can say that "The Boys in the Boat" fails to leave an everlasting impression on the audience. The script is on point, but the direction of Geroge Clooney is not as exceptional as it should be. Though there are some excellent scenes, it lacks the distinctive traits that would set it apart. After watching the movie, you will wish for more nuance and depth.