Rudy

Rudy is currently streaming in the US on Netflix and YouTube TV, and in the UK on Netflix, and it rewards the patience it asks of you. It knows exactly what kind of film it is from the opening scene, and never loses that thread. A 7/10 rating says what the writing already makes obvious: this one works. Sean Astin anchors it with a performance that rewards close attention. Start it on Netflix whenever you need something guaranteed to land.

Whatever else is competing for your attention this week, Rudy is worth clearing space for. The writing in Rudy treats its characters as people first, plot devices second. Rudy grew up in a steel mill town where most people ended up working, but wanted to play football at Notre Dame instead. There were only a couple of problems. His grades were a little low, his athletic skills were poor, and he was only half the size of the other players. Sean Astin and Jon Favreau lead a cast that brings real weight to the material. It was released in 1993. What elevates Rudy is a refusal to let any character off the hook too easily. It knows exactly what it is, and does not try to be anything else.

Viewers drawn to character-driven storytelling will find plenty to sit with in Rudy. It rewards viewers regardless of what else is in their watch history. Short enough to finish in one sitting, substantial enough to feel satisfying. Sean Astin carries the material with a performance that rewards close attention. Worth starting sooner rather than later.