The Longest Yard (1974) – Encore Review 2

“You know what my problem has been all my life? I’ve always had my sh*t together. Always. My problem’s been I couldn’t lift it.” – Paul Crewe

Number of Times Seen – Between 5-10 times (on video in the 80’s and the 90’s, DVD, 7 April 2013, 5 Sep 2019 and 1 Apr 2023)

Link to original review – Here and Here

Brief Synopsis – In a State prison, a former football star must put together a team of convicts in order to get his sentence reduced.

My Take on it – This is a movie that I was inspired to rewatch after watching The Offer (2022) which chronicled the production of The Godfather (1972). The producer of both movies was Albert Riddy and this film was the reason that he didn’t continue to work on the Godfather sequel. Burt Reynolds is amazing in this film and makes the viewer really like his character despite his various flaws. The film takes a normal football game to a higher level when they add in personal grudges and a real reason for the two sides to literally hate one another. The film knows when to be serious and when to inject comedy into the mix which helps make this movie so enjoyable to watch unfold. The film is able to raise the tension level as the game itself goes forward and that helps make it so much more engaging. The pacing is done really well and manages to help keep things in constant motion from start to finish.

MovieRob’s Favorite Trivia – Sports Illustrated’s Rick Telander wrote in the Oct. 17, 1988 issue: After the cast and crew of “The Longest Yard” departed from Georgia State Prison, the inmates played Georgia State Troopers using the equipment left behind by the film crew. The game quickly got out of hand, with inmates pummeling the out-of-shape troopers for their alleged arrogance. The game was called at the half, with the inmates ahead 66-0. End of prison football in Georgia. (From IMDB)

Rating – Globe Worthy (8/10) (no change from original review)