The other day I had the opportunity to write about a film called “Rudy”, which is one of the best sports movies I’ve ever seen. I mentioned that I wasn’t a fan at all of real sports, but that I still loved a good sports movie. Sony / Columbia Tristar, the studio that re-released “Rudy”, is also re-releasing a film called “Radio.” This was one I missed at the theatres, but had heard a lot about. Like “Rudy”, “Radio” is a true story about the guts and determination to fight for your dreams, no matter the challenge. “Radio” stars Cuba Gooding Jr. as Robert ‘Radio’ Kennedy, a young, mentally challenged man who ends up being the inspiration to the local high school team. Initially, he was shunned by the community and the local team, but is taken under the wing of the high school coach (Ed Harris). With his help, Radio works to overcome his disabilities and becomes more confident in his every day life. As his confidence grows, his presence begins to positively affect the community and team that once made fun of him.

Finally catching “Radio” on DVD, I can appreciate the film for the positive message it conveys. I didn’t find it to be a great movie, but it was still an inspiring one. What really saves it from becoming mired in its own good intentions is the performance by the cast. Harris, who is always terrific, does a great job as the Coach who teaches Radio, as is Alfre Woodard as the school’s principal.

Sadly, the only weak link as far as far as performances is that of Gooding as Radio. As fine of an actor as he is, I didn’t feel like Gooding adequately captured the character. His disabilities often seemed forced as opposed to natural. He does a good job, but just doesn’t pull it off well enough to carry the whole film.

For a film that kind of came and went in the theatres, Sony / Columbia Tristar still gave it a pretty good treatment on DVD. There are several extra features, including the obligatory director’s commentary by Mike Tollin. Along with this you’ll find some deleted scenes and a featurette on how they filmed the football games in the movie. The best feature is “Tuning in On Radio” and it focuses some on the real characters.

I wish I could give “Radio” a higher recommendation, but though it is well worth watching, it loses a few points because of Gooding’s performance.

Directed by: Mike Tollin
Starring: Cuba Gooding Jr, Ed Harris, Alfre Woodard, Debra Winger
Extras: Director's Commentary, Six Deleted Scenes, "Writing RADIO" Featurette, "The 12-Hour Football Games of Radio" Featurette, "Tuning in on Radio" Featurette, DVD ROM: Sports Illustrated Article
Specifications: Widescreen, Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound
Studio: Sony / Columbia Tristar
Release Date: 8/24/2004
Region 1
MPAA Rating: PG (For Mild Language and Thematic Elements)
Website

We'll give Radio a C.