Coincidental or not, seven-time Super Bowl-winning quarterback Tom Brady subsequently retired the same week a movie revolving around him was released to theaters. But the four well-known, outstanding actresses in their '70s and '80s starring in the film, are nowhere near retiring from their established careers. Before the release of “80 for Brady,” it was deemed to look like another cheap flick that your 50-year-old mother would watch on a night out with the girls. But surprisingly enough, this “chick-flick” flicks all odds, and snaps a football the whole nine yards.
Inspired by a true story, it follows four older women in the '70s and '80s trying to see Tom Brady and the Patriots play in the 2017 Super Bowl. The road to get into NRG stadium was rough, as several conflicts arose and friendships were tested. But the women are considerably driven by their dream of being in front of their lord and savior, Tom Brady.
“80 for Brady” has such a genuine ensemble cast, featuring four award-winning leading ladies, Lily Tomlin, Jane Fonda, Sally Fields and Rita Moreno. Ex-Patriot players make their appearance, like Rob Gronkowski, Danny Amendola, and of course Tom Brady himself. Other recognizable stars play their own smaller yet significant roles like Guy Fieri and Billy Porter.
While the film does have its desirable audience, seemingly women over forty, the film can be enjoyed by practically anybody. There are different aspects of humor that range for different audiences, whether it is a joke pertaining to gen-z or one pertaining to the older demographics. Usually in movies today, it’s typical for the older characters to get into a ruffle over something the younger generation has normalized, but not in this film. The “old people” humor is highly manageable for anyone and doesn’t try to stoop to a lower level.
Whether it’s Sally Field’s character calling her fanny pack a “strapon” or Jane Fonda’s character writing Rob Gronkowski erotic fanfiction, there is a lot of one-of-a-kind, yet seemingly relevant bits of comedy to laugh out loud at. It definitely has its corniest moments but there are far more boisterous, laugh-out-loud moments that overtake the awkward scenes. But even the corniest scenes make sense in context. The film isn’t trying to be laughed at but instead be laughed with, which makes it even more admirable.
What might not be entirely admirable is Brady, whose appearance is either clips from the actual NFL game he played or him having an odd savior complex. Even though the film is about him, his specific part in the plot was not dissected or that important. But to dissect his performance is odd, especially when you try to compare it to the iconic actresses who obtain more awards than Brady and his Lombardi Trophies.
The main character’s driving force is that they aren’t sure when an opportunity like this is ever going to come around again. This force can contest the actresses still acting even in the '70s and '80s, adamantly giving their career every chance they can get, similar to Brady’s belief to keep playing for many years because he “still got it.”
Not only does the film is filled with one comedic moment after the next, but it is also filled with plenty of heart and sentiment. Each woman is given their own compelling backstory and inquiries that adds so much character to the already loveable women. Lou, played by Lily Tomlin, has the most predominant and pivotal backstory, but it doesn’t outshine the backstories of her fellow Brady entourage. These genuine plotlines add substantial sympathy from audiences, enough to produce a tear or two.
But thanks to the lovely, glorious women that we heartily watch for an hour and a half, the film manages to sway you into rooting for Brady, even if you’re not a fan. Especially since the film makes an outstanding Super Bowl game from six years ago seem so theatrical, it's easy to gather camaraderie for a team that you already know has won the game it is playing. And even though his name is in the title and all roads lead to him, Brady is not the star of this show. Instead, the four leading ladies with a lifetime of accolades gracefully intercept Brady’s throw.
All in all, “80 for Brady” surprises audiences with its heartful comedy, honorable cast and lack of extreme corniness. The plot might seem questionable on paper, but this film deserves to be given a true watch by those who are skeptical of it. You’ll laugh or cry, or both, but either way, emotions will be felt that will make the entire experience of watching “80 for Brady” that much more worth it.
