Films So Good

I decided to write a review for an older movie since this film made me delve into the history of Derby County and turned me into a fan of both the team and Michael Sheen. Now that I’ve confessed my subjectivity, I’ll try to be as objective as I can.

The Damned United (2009), directed by Tom Hooper and based on David Peace’s novel, offers a gripping portrayal of Brian Clough’s tumultuous 44-day tenure as Leeds United manager in 1974. Far from being a typical sports biopic, the film focuses on Clough’s internal struggles, his hubris, and his rivalry with former Leeds manager Don Revie during his Derby County days.

Michael Sheen’s portrayal of Clough is outstanding, capturing both the charisma and arrogance that defined the real-life football manager. Sheen skillfully conveys the complex mix of confidence and insecurity that drives Clough, painting a picture of a man determined to prove himself but ultimately undone by his own pride.

One of the most characteristic scenes that captures Clough’s personality, in my opinion, is during Leeds training when he gets cocky about his goal-scoring record. “251 goals in 274 starts” he proudly declares.

Timothy Spall’s role as Clough’s loyal assistant, Peter Taylor, adds emotional depth to the film, showcasing the importance of their partnership to Clough’s earlier success at Derby County.

Hooper’s direction focuses heavily on character rather than the typical excitement of football matches. While the film does feature moments on the pitch, the heart of the story lies in the off-field power struggles and psychological tensions. Flashbacks to Clough’s rise at Derby contrast sharply with his struggles at Leeds, highlighting his fall from grace in a visually striking way. Ben Smithard’s cinematography enhances this contrast with a subdued color palette, reflecting the bleakness of Clough’s time at Leeds.

The Damned United has drawn some criticism for its historical inaccuracies, such as the portrayal of Clough’s relationships with the Leeds players and the exaggeration of certain events. However, the film is more focused on exploring Clough’s psyche than delivering a strictly factual account.

In essence, The Damned United is a compelling psychological drama wrapped in a sports setting, and it succeeds in creating a gripping narrative, even for audiences unfamiliar with British football history.

For those seeking a deep character study, The Damned United stands out as a poignant and reflective exploration of how one man’s ego and rivalry shaped his downfall, making it one of the most engaging sports-related films in recent memory. Spoiler alert: the downfall didn’t last long.

Movie Rating: 86/100

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