Looking for a lighthearted movie? Enjoy a vintage vibe? Want to warm up gently to football season? Try out George Clooney’s Leatherheads. This movie didn’t draw a lot of attention when it premiered which I think is a darn shame. The quality is classic and the acting enjoyable. It tells the story (fictional characters, of course, but loosely based on a few people from the time) of the beginning of pro-football. In the twenties, college football was king, but pro wasn’t even a blip on the radar. Funny when you think about the Superbowl mania and America’s obsession today. Littered with peppy characters, good ol’ fashion slapstick, and plenty of 1920s charm, this film is worth more than a few chuckles and a bowl of popcorn. Keeping with the time period, much of the movie is reminiscent of old Hollywood comedy. Clooney gets to do what he does best in comedy, layering the charm with moments of unflattering panic; Rene Zellweger stings and sizzles in all her saucy glory; John Krasinski is sweet and endearing while giving us those moments of perfect comedic timing so loved in The Office. A ragtime soundtrack and lots of rich set design top off this fun jaunt down yesteryear’s lane. Also, we have this film to thank for Jim’s dashing interview haircut at the end of Season Three of The Office. Thank you, George Clooney.
