The story of Ray-Ray McElrathbey, a freshman football player for Clemson University, who secretly raised his younger brother on campus after his home life became too unsteady.
Pam says:
“Safety” could easily be a fictional tale as it travels down what seems like a predictable road, but knowing it is based in reality adds a level of sincerity to the story and the characters. We watch as Ray-Ray shuts those around him out of his life, not trusting others, but his love interest, a school journalist, helps him shed those fears. The obstacles he faces, from coaches’ inflexible rules to the NCAA’s equality rigid guidelines, add the elements of tension and opportunities for maturity and eloquence from Ray-Ray and he rises to every occasion. While much of this may appear on the surface as being contrived, it feels nothing but sincere as it connects us to not only Ray-Ray and Fahmarr, but every coach and athlete we meet. We are rooting for this unique family called the Clemson Tigers as they ignite love and empathy in us as the viewer.
To read Pam’s review in its entirety, go to http://reelhonestreviews.com/safety-is-more-than-a-sports-story/
Chuck says:
To be sure, Disney has a formula where it comes to sports films and Safety follows it to a tee. That’s not necessarily a knock on this inspirational, based-on-fact tale that still manages to be affecting more times than not though there are times when the rah-rah, slightly macho inspiration goes over the top. Jay Reeves is very good in the title role, never guilty of overplaying moments that a lesser actor would have been tempted to take to 11. Ample support is supplied by Corinne Foxx (Jamie’s daughter), as his love interest, a fledgling sports writer named Kaycee who’s just as determined as she is compassionate.
Without question, Safety’s message is timely, its example of a community coming together to help one of its own necessary now more than ever. Great family viewing, this is the sort of film that’s perfect to take in during a holiday get together.
3 Stars
