Plot Summary
The Thomas family is successful and seems to get along on the surface. However, they struggle with as many issues as anyone does. They are involved in their community, including local sports, and are well-liked, but when tragedy strikes one of their own, they all find themselves struggling with forgiving those closest to them. Will they ever be able to reconcile and find healing?
Production Quality (1.5 points)
Although The Playbook is a somewhat rookie production, it is mostly good and is at least average. Video quality is fine, but some of the camera work is shaky, especially in the sports action shots. Lighting is sometimes inconsistent, but sets, locations, and props are all above board. Finally, as usual for films of this caliber, the editing is lacking the necessary push. Yet in the end, this is a respectable production is something to build off of.
Plot and Storyline Quality (.5 point)
Though the idea behind this plot is interesting and has potential, the story gets too lost in melodrama at times. There is too much wallowing in self-pity and anger without any real plot focus or meaningful redemptive elements. Rather than developing the characters so we can appreciate their struggles, this film spends a lot of time on sports montages, musical montages, and other useless sequences that really put a drag on the viewing experience. Stuff just happens but nothing holds the attention or is enough to sustain a full story because the characters are under-developed due to poor dialogue. The Christian message is also a little bit too vague. In the end, it’s likely that this creative team meant well—they just need some help with their execution.
Acting Quality (2 points)
Though this cast is ‘amateur’, they do a decent job without any real errors early on the film. Yet their performances tend to digress in the middle due to extreme emotions and poor drama acting. However, by the end, they have righted the ship again. Despite the errors, this is a good model for amateur casting.
Conclusion
Tragedy plots are notoriously difficult to pull off without stepping into common pitfalls. The same goes for sports plots. When combined together, there are all kinds of issues that can come up. Yet despite the rocky road plot, this movie isn’t all that bad, even though it may not have mass appeal. It shows raw talent and could be a stepping stone for future work. It will be interesting to see what becomes of this creative team.
Final Rating: 4 out of 10 points
Box Office Revolution 