Keke Palmer and Ice Cube (who co-produced) offer the sort of multi-layered performances that elevate a predictable plot into something special
Comment
08/21/08
The Longshots (2008)
40
%
Tomatometer
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Reviews Counted:65
Fresh:26
Rotten:39
Average Rating:5.2/10
Consensus: The Longshots means well, but it's a largely formulaic affair, rarely deviating from the inspirational sports movie playbook.
Reviews for The Longshots
Ice Cube brings his family film "A" game to The Longshots
12/19/08
This sweet inspirational story while familiar at times, keeps you thoroughly entertained by mixing healthy doses of humor into the real world drama.
08/20/08
Well, at least the underdog formula has gotten so tight that we can wrap these things up in under 90 minutes.
08/22/08
The Longshots is a likable enough Cinderella story, one whose heart is clearly in the right place, even if it winds up on its sleeve once too often.
08/22/08
Top CriticThe most surprising thing about the inspirational sports movie The Longshots is not that there isn't already an inspirational sports movie with that exact name. The big shock is that the director Fred Durst -- and he doesn't do half bad.
08/28/08
Despite the name, it's a pretty safe bet for an enjoyable film for the whole family.
08/21/08
...sensitive, well-attuned performances [from] Ice Cube and [Keke] Palmer...
08/29/08
This genuinely affecting movie, based on a true story, has a heart as big as a football field even when its plot points are telegraphed.
08/22/08
There are few movies out right now more genuine than this Cinderella story.
08/21/08
Keke Palmer has single-handedly saved another feel-good drama from drowning in sap.
08/21/08
I’m not exactly sure how to put this -- not quite sure I believe it myself, honestly -- but Fred Durst, lead singer of Limp Bizkit (perhaps the lousiest rock band in the long history of lousy rock bands), isn’t half bad at making movies.
08/20/08
A pleasant, if predictable, tale of female empowerment ideal for the under ten set.
08/24/08
Durst keeps the story rooted in the desperation of a dying town, and that gives this formulaic family fare a slight edge.
08/22/08
Director Fred Durst, yes you are reading that correctly, made a very noticeable debut with this true story that is full of cliches but a ton of heart.
08/21/08
We're left with an unforced, sweet-natured story about people who find small ways to touch others and rediscover the good in themselves.
08/22/08
It's rare to see a well-made movie that empowers young girls the way this one does. So who am I to complain about the plot being formulaic?
09/05/08
Durst's surprisingly gentle and understated direction lends the proceedings authenticity even when they cover the most pro forma ground.
02/12/09
The film works so well because the sports elements are the least important.
08/22/08
Cube gives a layered, subtle portrayal and it is a pleasure to watch Curtis bloom along with Jasmine.
08/21/08
Latest News for The Longshots
August 25, 2008:
Cube's Longshots Pay Off for Director Durst 
Fred Durst knows no one expected him to trade in his backwards hat for a director's chair -- especially to helm a family film like "The Longshots" -- but the Limp Bizkit... More...
August 24, 2008:
Keke Palmer plays another underdog in sentimental family flick.
More...
August 21, 2008:
Box Office Guru Preview: Death Race Shoots for Pole Position
The ancient studio ritual of dumping weak product into the late August box office has begun. Four new releases, most about failures trying to redeem themselves, hit the... More...
June 22, 2008:
Trailer Poster review
More...
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