In the first football movie not catered towards adolescent boys and typical football cliches, “When the Game Stands Tall,” directed by Thomas Carter, teaches that there is so much more to life than winning, and exemplifies the lessons that sports teach. It tells a tale to love and learn from.

Inspired by a true story, “When the Game Stands Tall” captured the incredible journey of Bob Ladouceur, played by Jim Caviezel, famous for “The Passion” and his De La Salle High School Football team in northern California. It shows the winningest team in all of history, with a 151-0 record spanning over 12 years.

Ladouceur never placed his coaching emphasis on winning, though, but rather valued family and effort. And when they eventually lose, their strength and brotherhood is tested.  As everything threatens to fall apart, the team has to not only have to figure out how to win, but also how to build up everything that is crashing into pieces around them.

The movie has a strong sense of faith, but manages to make it appealing to those who differ in belief. The viewers, instead, are grabbed emotionally by the rollercoaster of events and adoration for the characters.  The acting is brilliant, and the cinematography is momentous.  Chris Ryan, played by Alexander Ludwig, from the “Hunger Games” embodies his role of senior leader, and impresses with his seemingly effortless acting talent. The film makes one feel as if they were playing with the actors on the football field. Watching it renders one speechless in awe. The actors seem to be born for their part.

It is hard to describe in words what a significant effect this movie has, how exhilarating and breath taking it truly is.  In the end, just to experience the replication of the profound journey is enough.  The movie is not really about a high school football game, it’s about life.