70
Unfortunately, the accompanying story threads tend to bog down the action rather than provide contrast between the games.
What are people saying?
What are critics saying?
50
Director Thomas Carter (no relation to Ken) relies on processed emotion and stock characters, and not even the inevitable Big Game excites us very much.
50
Christian Science Monitor by David Sterritt
The movie's moral messages are all on target. Too bad the movie is much, much too long and Jackson gives one of his dullest performances ever.
60
The corniness and predictability feel, if not quite fresh, then not so groaningly stale.
63
Charlotte Observer by Lawrence Toppman
Heartwarming drama.
60
The Hollywood Reporter by Michael Rechtshaffen
Thanks mainly to his (Jackson) considerable presence, Coach Carter works more effectively than expected.
50
Coach Carter eventually curdles into a grim love letter to discipline and accountability, which makes it the perfect sports film for W.'s second term, but not a whole lot of fun.
58
Entertainment Weekly by Owen Gleiberman
Jackson, though, does lend this earnest formula flick a core of conviction.
70
Both an inspirational sports movie and an unexpected multi-level urban drama that plays by its own clock.