The Damned United (2009) Review in 2025
The Damned United is a biographical sports drama film that tells the story of Brian Clough's tumultuous tenure as the manager of Leeds United football club. The film explores the complexities of Clough's personality and his struggles to manage the team.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This film is not suitable for family viewing due to its mature themes, strong language, and some violence.
CineReview Recommendation
This film is worth watching for fans of biographical dramas and sports movies. However, it may not be suitable for all audiences due to its mature themes and strong language.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film delves into the inner workings of Clough's mind, showcasing his obsessive personality and his fixation on winning. As he navigates the cutthroat world of professional football, Clough's relationships with his players and staff begin to fray, leading to a series of catastrophic consequences.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a strong focus on Clough's complex personality. However, some plot points feel a bit rushed and could have been explored further.
acting9.50/10
The acting is superb, particularly from Michael Sheen, who fully embodies Clough's complex personality. The supporting cast is also impressive, with standout performances from the actors playing the Leeds United players.
characters9.00/10
The characters are well-developed and nuanced, particularly Clough and his assistant Peter Taylor. The supporting cast is also impressive, with standout performances from the actors playing the Leeds United players.
direction8.50/10
Tom Hooper's direction is solid, with a clear vision for the film's tone and style. However, some scenes feel a bit overly dramatic and could have been toned down.
cinematography7.00/10
The cinematography is decent, but nothing particularly impressive. The film's color palette is a bit dull, and some scenes feel a bit over-lit.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The film's strong performances, engaging story, and nuanced characters make it a compelling watch. The film's exploration of Clough's complex personality is also a highlight.
Cons
Some plot points feel a bit rushed, and the cinematography is not particularly impressive. The film's tone can also feel a bit overly dramatic at times.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a dictator, I'm a liberator."
"I'm not interested in being liked, I'm interested in winning."
"You can't win the league with a bunch of prima donnas."
