Rudy: A true underdog story

The true story of "Rudy" Ruettiger's dream of attending the University of Notre Dame to play football, directed by David Anspaugh, is a predictable but inspiring underdog story. Rudy's determination, heart, and dedication result in almost exactly what you'd expect, but despite its predictability Rudy stands as a classic sports title.

Rudy Ruettiger grows up never being the fastest, the biggest, strongest, or even the smartest in the classroom. As he explains however, he "bleeds blue and gold, through and through". The only thing Rudy ever wanted was to play football at his dream university and after a few years removed from school it seems almost as if this dream was lost. However with the death of his best friend, his only true supporter, Rudy has a new found inspiration and sense of urgency to accomplish his dream.
Of course Rudy applies to attend Notre Dame, he is however declined on his first attempt...and on his second, and third. The constant failure is coupled with Rudy's continuing success in a much smaller school close by, with the thought that if he succeeds there then Notre Dame will accept him. His dream never fades and his hope is kept alive symbolically through his Notre Dame letterman jacket, given to him by the same best friend that he lost earlier in the film.
Rudy's continuous hard work, in school, in the gym, and as a main thence worker at the stadium ultimately result in his acceptance to the university. Rudy, as a late transfer student to the university, and a still undersized and physically outmatched player only makes the practice squad. His heart is unmatched however, week in and week out he takes the field to receive endless amounts of punishment and unlike other players on the team he works tirelessly to help the varsity team prepare.
His pursuit of his dream through determination, perseverance, and hard work (as you would expect) wins over the hearts of his teammates and in his final game Rudy is placed on the dress list. In the perfect Hollywood ending Rudy leads the team out of the locker room, through the tunnel, and onto the field. And finally, still expectedly Rudy is given the opportunity to play one play, one play that he makes the most of and sacks the opposing team's quarterback. Rudy is carried off the field, as the stadium chants his name as his dream is fulfilled entirely.
Rudy's predictable nature doesn't make it bad, instead it provides hope for anyone who has a dream that others tell them that they will never accomplish. Rudy embodies everything that most of us admire. This story of a young boy and his devotion and heart truly stand as an inspiring sports film and tremendous movie all together.
Score 9 out of 10