The Heart of the Game (2006)

Art, Miami

I caught the last half of this documentary on cable and was immediately mesmerized. It's a wonderful story of persistence and the fact that it plays out over a six year period makes it all that more fascinating. August 25, 2008

Heart of the Game

This is a great movie as far as life lessons and high school sports go. I coach girls basketball and plan on having everyone watch this film. There is something valuable in almost every word or situation that occurs. June 13, 2008

Great films that makes you ask some questions

This was a wonderfully engrossing film, a real find. I think Coach Resler was absolutely right in getting his female players to attack ferociously and not avoid contact, he had half the battle won already. But in thinking about the film after seeing it, I was left with some troubling questions:

1. While it seems clear that Darnellia Russell should have received a hardship year after being away from school with her baby, I'm surprised whe wasn't suspended or removed from the team for earlier transgressions. Going into the crowd, for one.

2. The players' extensive use of profanity is not consistent with Coach Resler's image of imparting life lessons.

3. How could the Coach or the other players not have been clued in to Devon Crosby-Helms' troubles with Tony Giles?

4. I'm struck by how worn out and tired Coach Resler looks by the end of the film. He didn't look or sound like the same guy anymore.

Those questions notwithstanding, this film was well worth seeing. Strongly recommended.


May 3, 2008

A must see for anyone interested in sports for young women

I read the book "The Heart of the Team" first. That was excellent. I think you get more out of the book. However, it was wonderful to see some live footage of the team playing in the movie. I think anyone interested in coaching women's sporting teams should watch this movie and read the book. If only because it is fun and inspiring. Way to go Bill!!! This movie is a documentary, so it didn't capture my five year old daughter's interest like "Bend It Like Beckham" did. It would be nice to have more movies available to inspire young girls to enjoy sports. December 21, 2007

It is way more than a sports documentary

You don't have to be a sports fan to enjoy this movie. Ward captures a great story in the middle of a sports setting. There is entertainment and enjoyment for all ages in this film. It is amazing that this is a true story. I especially enjoyed the quotes and comments of the head basketball coach.

Looking forward to Ward's next release. Hope he continues to find great
characters as he did with Bill Resler in this film. September 26, 2007

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