Heart of Champions

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In recent years, several films have found a second life on streaming platforms after their initial flops in theaters, and Michael Shannon sports drama, , might just be the latest to join the list. Michael Mailer's 2021 sports drama was added to Netflix on February 17, and it didn't take long for it to climb the streaming charts, attracting viewers who are always on the lookout for something new.

Written by former Columbia University rower Vojin Gjaja, Heart of Champions tells the story of Belston University's struggling rowing team, who had a difficult year after finishing last in the national championship. Additionally, the growing disputes between team leaders Alex (Alexander Ludwig), John (Alex MacNicoll), and Chris (Charles Melton) throw the entire team into turmoil. Just when things seem hopeless, an Army veteran named Murphy (Michael Shannon) takes over as the new coach and the squad begins to unlock their true potential and learn what it takes to become champions.

Despite its inspirational premise, the film was a major box office bomb when it was released in 2021, . Critics weren't kind either, awarding it 31% on Rotten Tomatoes, while audiences were far more considerate, giving it a proper 75%. Perhaps its quick transition to VOD, as well as releasing the film in only 102 theaters, contributed greatly to its failure.

Having said that, Heart of Champions is now thriving on Netflix. . Obviously, streaming charts are constantly in flux, and Shannon's movie may have had its time in the sun, or it could end up leaping into the chart several times in the coming weeks. One thing for certain, is that this is another movie getting some of the attention it failed to attract on its original release.

Let's be honest—Heart of Champions does not bring anything new to the sports drama genre, but that doesn't mean it's devoid of entertainment. Despite its predictable plot and superfluous romance, the film excels in depicting the sport of rowing and the challenges that arise along the road. Furthermore, Michael Shannon delivers one of his career-best performances in this film, as a coach who is both disciplined and emotionally invested in his students.

While others have delivered great performances, Shannon, despite being underwritten, is the heart and soul of the film. For those unfamiliar with rowing, Heart of Champions provides some visually breathtaking moments, with numerous instances of cinematography holding its ground. However, seasoned fans of the sport may not find it as appealing. Overall, it is a typical underdog story in which a struggling team finds redemption after numerous defeats, thanks to the guidance of a diligent coach. By no means is it a distinctive story, but at the very least, Heart of Champions is a well-made, heartfelt sports drama that's worth a watch.