When I saw the trailers for Pride about a month ago, two thoughts came to mind:

1. Terrance Howard lost a bet.
2. It’s official: We’ve run out of sports through which to teach modern audiences the values of self-reliance and understanding differences.

I don’t mean to belittle competitive swimmers. I had a few friends in high school who were on the swim team and it was their whole existence. I understand the crazy athleticism and determination it takes to shave tenths of seconds off your lap time. I mean, these were guys who would shave all their hair off their bodies before a meet to reduce drag – and I mean everything. Say goodbye to emoting with your eyebrows for a month!

But let’s face it – laps in a swimming pool isn’t going to keep me glued to my seat. Sure, there’s the possibility someone might drown. But that would be kind of a downer for a supposedly uplifting movie like this one, don’t you think?

And what’s with this movie being centered around the swimming program of The Philadelphia Department of Recreation? What’s so special about it? I’m aware that the film is based on historical events. Apparently the coach that Howard plays is a big deal, but I’ve never heard of him. I guess he’s like a motivational speaker for kids, or something, but he uses swimming instead of obtuse metaphors about climbing ladders and avoiding snakes. Who knows?

This might all come off as very ignorant. Admittedly, I’m probably not the target demo for this movie. But if your trailers have me scratching my head and asking this many questions, then you’re in trouble. That’s one man’s opinions. Am I wrong? Let me know in the comments.

By-the-by, don’t forget to check out this week’s episode of The Triple Feature talkcast at 9:00 PM CST over at TalkShoe. Since no good movies came out last week, Gordon, Joe and I will be discussing the recently DVD release of Casino Royale along with all of our favorite Bond movies. If for no other reason, be sure to tune in tonight to listen to Gordon fake his way through an hour long conversation about James Bond. Is it possible to hear a man sweat over the radio?

Talk to you later!