The Popkorn Junkie :: Invincible

Invincible is the true story of Vince Papali (Mark Wahlberg), a 30 year old rookie for the Philadelphia Eagles who never played college ball and was on the team only because of a bold and innovative move by the, then, young new coach Dick Vermeil (Greg Kinnear). The thing is, it is difficult for me to be objective about Invincible. I was born and raised in Philadelphia and still live and breathe Eagles, Phillies, Sixers, and Flyers. So I love everything about Philadelphia sports, the area and the people. I love just the fact that this movie even exists, and the world will see a story of the somewhat flawed but devoted Philadelphian.

The film accurately portrays the extreme passion of the Philadelphia sports fan and the dream that I am sure all of us have to suit up and actually help the teams we root for all of our lives. Though the film is about a triumph, I feel it spent too much time on the darker side of the story. For example, the scenes of my largely beautiful city were all of the darker unpleasant corners. Likewise, the portrayal of life in the city was shown as generally depressing with workers on strike, football played in muddy littered parking lots, cars that won’t start, family disputes, lack of jobs, etc. I admit those dark corners exist, and are accurately portrayed, but even by the film’s happy ending, I felt down. I would have liked more balance between the lows and highs so I could have rejoiced and been thrilled by triumph in the face of great odds.

Also on the negative side, the characters were not portrayed in any depth. I was expecting more of an understanding of Dick Vermeil who in real life was incredibly driven and mentally drained from his NFL experiences. It is unusual for a person from Los Angeles California to be able to fit in well with the people of this town, but he fit in perfectly and the fans loved him and still do. He seemed to understand us. Yes, we got the idea that he was a workaholic, but like Vince's professional teammates, we didn't really get to know much about him.

As for Mark Wahlberg. He did a fine job. He fit the role perfectly and it showed on screen. But I still did not really care too much about all of his character’s personal problems, his hope and dreams. Maybe it was a poor script, poor acting, or maybe I just wanted him to play hard and try his best, and didn't want to hear any excuses.. … so maybe I was just watching it like a true Philadelphia fan.

-- Pappy ( 3 out of 4 pops )

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