Concussion Rotten Tomatoes is a topic that has garnered attention from both cinema enthusiasts and critics alike. This film, released in 2015, explores the controversial issues surrounding brain injuries in football, particularly focusing on the life of Dr. Bennet Omalu, who discovered Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). With its gripping narrative and powerful performances, it has sparked discussions on health, sports, and ethics. In this article, we will delve into the film's plot, character analysis, critical reception, and its impact on society.
The film stars Will Smith as Dr. Omalu, whose journey to uncover the truth about brain injuries in athletes is met with resistance from the powerful National Football League (NFL). The narrative not only highlights the struggles of the protagonist but also raises awareness about a pressing issue that affects many athletes. This article will explore the various aspects of the film, including its Rotten Tomatoes score, audience reception, and the broader implications of its subject matter.
In addition to examining the film's reception on Rotten Tomatoes, we will also look at the critical reviews it received and how it has influenced public perception of sports-related injuries. By the end of this article, readers will have a comprehensive understanding of "Concussion" and its significance in the realm of cinema and society.
Table of Contents
- Overview of Concussion
- Plot Summary
- Character Analysis
- Critical Reception on Rotten Tomatoes
- Audience Reception
- Impact on Society
- Conclusion
- Sources
Overview of Concussion
"Concussion" is a biographical sports drama directed by Peter Landesman, based on the GQ article "Game Brain" by Jeanne Marie Laskas. The film shines a light on the true story of Dr. Bennet Omalu, a forensic pathologist who made a groundbreaking discovery about the effects of repeated head trauma in professional football players. The film not only serves as an engaging narrative but also as a wake-up call to the sports community and the general public regarding the dangers of concussions.
Plot Summary
The plot of "Concussion" revolves around Dr. Omalu, portrayed by Will Smith, who conducts an autopsy on former Pittsburgh Steelers player Mike Webster. His findings reveal a condition known as CTE, which is caused by repeated head injuries. As Omalu begins to uncover more cases linked to the NFL, he faces significant pushback from the league, which seeks to protect its image at all costs. The film poignantly captures his struggles against institutional resistance, personal sacrifices, and the quest for truth.
Character Analysis
The characters in "Concussion" are pivotal to the film's narrative. Below are some key characters:
- Dr. Bennet Omalu (Will Smith): The protagonist whose determination and scientific rigor drive the story forward.
- Dr. Cyril Wecht (Albert Brooks): Omalu's mentor who supports him in his quest for the truth.
- Preston E. W. W. (Penny) Omalu (Gugu Mbatha-Raw): Omalu's wife, who provides emotional support throughout his journey.
- Roger Goodell (Luke Wilson): The NFL commissioner who embodies the league's resistance to Omalu's findings.
Critical Reception on Rotten Tomatoes
On Rotten Tomatoes, "Concussion" received mixed reviews from critics. The film holds a score of approximately 60%, indicating a moderate response. Critics praised Will Smith's performance and the film's important message, while some felt the execution of the narrative could have been more compelling. According to Rotten Tomatoes, the audience score is slightly higher, reflecting a more favorable reception from viewers who appreciated the underlying themes.
Audience Reception
Audience feedback on "Concussion" has generally been positive, particularly among those who value the film's exploration of significant social issues. Many viewers express appreciation for the film's ability to raise awareness about the long-term effects of concussions in sports. Viewer reviews often highlight the emotional weight of the story and the importance of Dr. Omalu's work in advocating for player safety.
Impact on Society
"Concussion" has had a profound impact on public perception regarding head injuries in sports. Following its release, there was a noticeable increase in discussions about player safety, leading to changes in policies at various levels of football. The NFL has since implemented stricter concussion protocols and has invested in research to better understand and prevent brain injuries.
Conclusion
In summary, "Concussion" serves as a significant film that not only tells the story of Dr. Bennet Omalu's groundbreaking work but also raises essential questions about the ethics of sports and player safety. Its reception on Rotten Tomatoes reflects a mix of critical and audience perspectives, emphasizing the importance of the themes it presents. As discussions around concussions and player safety continue, "Concussion" remains a pivotal piece of cinema that encourages viewers to think critically about the implications of sports culture.
Sources
- Rotten Tomatoes - Concussion
- IMDb - Concussion
- Healthline - Understanding Concussions
- NFL - Concussion Protocols
