Introduction to a Dark Sports Film
There are many horror stories about professional sports, but surprisingly, there are no horror films about this topic. A new film aims to fill this gap with the story of an up-and-coming star quarterback who encounters dark powers on his way to success. Unfortunately, the film’s potential disappears as it transforms into a surreal phantasmagory in its second half.
A Promising Start
The story begins realistically enough, with the central character, Cameron Cade, introduced as a star college quarterback on the coast of a professional career. However, when he wants to participate in an NFL scouting event, he is attacked by a mysterious costumed figure and suffers a traumatic brain injury. Cameron is advised to forget his dreams due to his health, but after experiencing a childhood where the idea of being successful at all costs was built into him by his father, he decides to continue.
A Descent into Darkness
Cameron encourages his predatory agent and takes a chance to do more personal training with Isaiah White, a legendary quarterback who Cameron has idealized since childhood. The first signs that something is wrong occur when Cameron comes across a cult-like group of disturbed, grotesque-looking people on the way to the isolated desert ranch of the football star. As soon as he arrives, he is welcomed, and his phone is confiscated, and he is told that he will experience a "radical departure" from the outside and social media.
Unconventional Training Methods
The subsequent coaching, monitored by White, together with a female sports doctor and a hulking trainer, means that Cameron undergoes a psychological intimidation program. He is told that he is nothing more than an emotional small, terminal boy, and he is encouraged to subject himself to frequent blood transfusions of a very suspicious nature. The training becomes increasingly bizarre, with trippy episodes, including a visual replica of the painting "The Last Supper."
A Visually Stunning but Flawed Film
The film is sometimes visually stunning, with conceivingly violent encounters between football players represented by X-ray style effects that show the internal damage on their bodies. The musical score, composed by Bobby Krlic, is adequately worrying, and the actors give their all. However, by the time it reaches the extremely bloody last act, the film has long since gone off the rails.
Conclusion
While the film has some visually stunning moments and a talented cast, it ultimately fails to deliver on its promise. The story becomes too surreal and bizarre, making it difficult to follow and enjoy. If you’re looking for a film about the dehumanizing effects of professional football, you might want to look elsewhere. Despite its flaws, the film is still worth watching for its unique take on the sports horror genre, but be prepared for a wild and unpredictable ride.
