"Concussion" Movie: Analysis of Strong and Weak Sides

The movie "Concussion" is a 2015 biographical drama film directed by Peter Landesman, starring Will Smith in the lead role. The film depicts the true story of Dr. Bennet Omalu, a forensic pathologist who discovers the debilitating effects of repetitive head trauma on professional football players. This essay analyzes the "Concussion" movie in terms of its strengths and weaknesses.

The film is set in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and opens with the death of former Pittsburgh Steelers center Mike Webster (David Morse), who died at the age of 50 after struggling with dementia and depression. Dr. Bennet Omalu (Will Smith), a Nigerian forensic pathologist, is assigned to perform an autopsy on Webster's brain. Through his examination, Omalu discovers that Webster had suffered from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease caused by repeated blows to the head.

Omalu's discovery leads him to investigate other football players who have died under similar circumstances. He discovers that many of them had also suffered from CTE, including former players Andre Waters, Justin Strzelczyk, and Dave Duerson. Omalu presents his findings to the NFL, but they refuse to acknowledge the link between football and CTE.

"Concussion" movie: analysis of strengths and weaknesses

The movie raises important questions about the safety of professional football players and the responsibility of the NFL to protect their players from the harmful effects of the game. It highlights the struggle that Omalu faced as he tried to bring his findings to the attention of the NFL and the wider public.

One of the strengths of the film is its portrayal of Omalu's character. Will Smith delivers an excellent performance as the determined and passionate Omalu, who is committed to his work and determined to bring the truth to light. The film shows his journey from an outsider in a predominantly white community to a respected and successful forensic pathologist.

The film also explores the role of the media in shaping public opinion. Omalu's findings are initially dismissed by the NFL, but when the media begins to report on the story, the public becomes aware of the dangers of football and the link between CTE and repeated head trauma. The film shows how the media can be a powerful force in bringing about change and holding those in power accountable.

However, the film does have some weaknesses. The pacing of the film is slow, and at times it feels like it drags on for too long. Additionally, some of the supporting characters are underdeveloped, which can make it difficult to fully invest in their stories.

Despite its flaws, "Concussion" is an important film that raises awareness about the dangers of football and the importance of protecting players from the harmful effects of the game. It highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability from the NFL and other organizations responsible for the safety of professional athletes.

In conclusion, "Concussion" is a powerful film that raises important questions about the safety of professional football players and the responsibility of the NFL to protect its players. Will Smith's performance as Dr. Bennet Omalu is exceptional, and the film highlights the role of the media in bringing about change. While it has some flaws, the film is an important contribution to the ongoing discussion about the dangers of football and the need for greater accountability in the sports industry.

References

1. Landesman, P. (Director). (2015). Concussion [Motion picture]. United States: Columbia Pictures.
2. Bailes, J. E., & Stern, R. A. (2015). An important step in understanding the long-term consequences of concussion. JAMA Neurology, 72(8), 783-784. doi: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2015.1105
3. McKee, A. C., Stern, R. A., Nowinski, C. J., Stein, T. D., Alvarez, V. E., Daneshvar, D. H., & Cantu, R. C. (2013). The spectrum of disease in chronic traumatic encephalopathy. Brain, 136(1), 43-64. doi: 10.1093/brain/aws307
4. Smith, W. (Actor), Morse, D. (Actor), & Landesman, P. (Director). (2015). Concussion: A conversation with Will Smith and Dr. Bennet Omalu [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z1U6M5OuuB0
5. ESPN Films. (2013). 30 for 30: Broke [Documentary]. United States: ESPN.