This film contains some of my favorite lines of all time, but it has a few issues. The double flashback in the beginning doesn’t do the movie any favors, but once it settles into its slow, comfortable, British rhythm it quickly begins to show its qualities. The slow pacing allows for the depth of introspection required by the philosophical underpinnings of the plot, and the dialogue is so rich that it’s easy to miss meaningful character moments. This makes it harder for new viewers to fully understand, but it also makes repeat viewings more rewarding for fans. And the well-stated, beautifully-demonstrated life philosophy on display makes this one of my perennial favorites, despite the few flaws it has.

Closest comparison: It’s like the philosophical underpinnings of Gladiator in the vestiments of Jeeves and Wooster, wrapped together in a sports movie.

Setting: University Drama
Plot: Sports Inspirational
Tone: Philosophical Drama