An intriguing depiction of Brian Clough (Michael Sheen) and his job as manager of Leeds United FC. As well as the road leading to the job for the man was depicted, I was slightly annoyed by the time "warp". It was also done in 500 Days of Summer, Definitely,Maybe and The Other Man, so by now has lost its "wow" effect on me. Which should not take any credit away from the film, but leaves a bitter taste my mouth.
The cast was fairly unknown for me as Colm Meaney's (Law Abiding Citizen, Law & Order) was the only face I recognized. Yet this played in the film's advantage, portraying unknown managers coaching unknown players that went on to make history. Which is where the rub is. The true story will always be bigger, more emotional, better and more relevant than this film, which will fail to exceed mediocrity.
For me, the only bright spots in the film were added clips of actual footage from news reports on this affair (much like photos at the end of The Blind Side) and the personality of Brian Clough. Men like him are so ambitious that nothing will take them down. But the crucial part is that they have to act towards themselves with the same ruthless and somewhat vulgar attitude they face to world with. Alas, they will always start their own downfall.
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