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               Rudy
30th Anniversary 4K         review by Bobby Blakey

Some of the most inspirational films come in the form of sport themed films. When these true stories are handled right they not only inspire, but become part of the cult lexicon for years to come. In 1993 Sean Astin stepped out of the shadows of his younger roles and into that of an icon wit the film Rudy. The film co-stars Ned Beatty, Charles S. Dutton, Lili Taylor, Robert Prosky, and Jon Favreau from Hoosiers director David Anspaugh. Now Sony is celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the film bringing it to 4K.  

 

Rudy follows Rudy who as been told all his life he's not good enough, not smart enough, and not big enough. But nothing can stop his impossible dream of playing football for Notre Dame. From the time he's a young boy, Rudy is determined to join the Fighting Irish, but his blue collar family only laughs at his ambitions, they know Rudy will follow his father and brothers to the local steel mill. For four long years after high school, he does just that, but some dreams won't die, as Rudy proves when he goes to heroic, occasionally hilarious, lengths to win admission to Notre Dame. Once there, he becomes a walk-on player, serving as little more than a human tackling dummy against the starting players. Bloodied but unbeaten, Rudy wins the

respect of legendary coach Ara Parseghian and the other Irish players, who give him one shot at gridiron glory.

 

I used to watch this movie all the time if it was on, but for whatever reason I stopped and haven’t seen it in years. So glad I got to revisit it again after all this time and it holds up just as good today. The film isn’t really what I would call a typical sports movie in that it doesn’t have much actual sports in it and more just his journey. That’s not a complaint either as it is the heart of this film all around. The football that is showcased is well shot and engaging, but it’s the perseverance and heart of Astin that makes this movie what it is. He carries the film on his shoulders much the way that the real life Rudy lived his own life.

 

I know there are elements of the real story that have been changed for this film, but that is normal for these kinds of films and it is really the message it conveys that is really important. The supporting cast are all great as well and fun to see not only a young Favreau here, but also a young Vince Vaugn in a smaller role. Knowing their careers together and individually now just makes this film all the more iconic.  

 

This film holds up with its performance and messages that will hopefully continue to inspire people with this new release. The 4K transfer looks good and the release features plenty of bonus content including commentaries, trailer, deleted scenes, featurettes and both the theatrical and director’s cut of the film.

 

Step back onto the field and grab your copy of the Rudy 30th Anniversary Edition available now on 4K from Sony Home Entertainment.

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