Grade: A … Sports and sports movies have always appealed to me. Sports can deliver a greater high beyond any recreational drug. Throughout the years of movies, we have been treated to classics such as “Rocky,” “Rudy,” and “Miracle.” Each movie depicted an athlete or team overcoming the odds to achieve sports euphoria.

While sports movies can be predictable, because they are often true stories, they still have the ability to keep viewers on the edge of their seats, even if they already know the outcome of the movie. This is the case with many iconic classic sports movies.

Director George Clooney’s “The Boys in the Boat” may not be heralded as a sports movie classic, but this true story will inspire greatness in all of those that experience it.

“The Boys in the Boat” is about the University of Washington’s rowing team in the 1930’s. Being that it was during the depression, the men that attended the University of Washington were not as wealthy as the likes of Yale or Harvard men. The story of overcoming adversity for a chance to win gold at Hitler’s Berlin games is nothing short of fascinating.

The movie is incredibly well acted. From Joel Edgerton’s portrayal of Coach Al Ulbrickson to the lesser known actors who literally were the boys in the boat. Edgerton has the perfect look of a coach during that time period and was perfectly cast for the role. Luke Slattery also gave a phenomenal performance as Bobby Moch. Moch was the “driver” of the boat and would be constantly shouting to the crew team the speeds he needed from the team.

The cinematography was well done and helped to fuel a more thrilling experience for the audience. The audience will get to enjoy scenery from all over the United States as well as Berlin since the University of Washington rowing team traveled from regatta to regatta.

“The Boys in the Boat” is not to be missed in the theater. It is one of the holiday releases out now that will have you cheering in your seat!