Leatherheads

Leatherheads is a film paying homage to the beginnings of the game of football. It focuses on one man's attempts to try to save the league.

Jimmy "Dodge" Connelly (played by George Clooney), is the captain of the fictional Duluth Bulldogs. Connelly, to help try and save the struggling football league, convinces college football star Carter "the Bullet" Rutherford (John Krasinski) to play for the Bulldogs, due to his celebrity. Reporter Lexie Littleton (Renee Zellweger), who is sent to cover Rutherford, soon becomes an object of infatuation for both Rutherford and Connelly. Connelly, close to retirement and not happy with the rules being imposed on the game, decides to play in one last contest, against Chicago, the team to which Rutherford defects.

The best part of this film was the acting of George Clooney. His character was both distinguished and hilarious. I enjoyed seeing Clooney in this role as he has knack for both the dramatic and the comedic arts.

The only real downside to this film is the acting of Renee Zellweger. She never once seemed like she was in character. Her entire performance seemed to be forced. I would have liked to see someone like Charlize Theron or Reese Witherspoon in this role. I think they would have an easier time adjusting to the role.

This screwball comedy, which pays tribute to the early days of football, is a great film that I would recommend to anyone.