This is THE ‘kid’s got heart’ movie. It’s a straightforward, down-to-earth story of overcoming odds and pursuing a dream, beautifully executed with tangible stakes and devil-may-mock attitude shining in the face of the haters. It confidently executes a by-the-numbers plot, unashamedly reveling in its sincerity and putting in the legwork to make the ending feel earned. There’s no substitute; this film simply does this type of story better than any other.

Closest comparison: It’s like The Pursuit of Happyness by way of Remember the Titans.

Setting: Sports Drama
Plot: Overcoming Adversity
Tone: Inspirational Drama