‘The Replacements’ With Bill Simmons and Van Lathan
The Rewatchables
Deep Dive
Why did 'The Replacements' become a rewatchable movie over time?
Sports culture changed, shifting the perspective on labor and ownership in sports. Initially, the movie portrayed players as greedy bad guys and owners as nice guys, which is now outdated. The movie's quaintness and the charm of its actors, like Keanu Reeves and Gene Hackman, also contributed to its rewatchability.
How has the perception of sports labor changed since the release of 'The Replacements'?
Today, players are seen as the good guys fighting for fair compensation, while owners are viewed as capitalist titans. This shift in perception makes 'The Replacements' a relic of how sports were once viewed.
What role did the 1987 NFL strike play in the plot of 'The Replacements'?
The plot was loosely based on the 1987 NFL strike, where teams hired replacement players. The Washington Redskins, in particular, benefited from their scab players, which inspired the movie's premise.
How did Keanu Reeves' career trajectory change after 'The Replacements'?
After 'The Replacements,' Keanu Reeves went through a 14-year period where he wasn't considered an A-list actor, starring in several movies that didn't perform well. He didn't regain his A-list status until 'John Wick' in 2014.
Why did Gene Hackman take roles in 'The Replacements' and similar films?
Gene Hackman took roles in films like 'The Replacements' as part of his retirement package, allowing him to fatten up his wallet before fully retiring from acting.
What is the significance of the character Eddie Martell in 'The Replacements'?
Eddie Martell represents the archetype of the deeply unlikable, entitled, and arrogant athlete, a character type that is now less common in sports movies. His character is reminiscent of real-life athletes like Aaron Rodgers.
How does the portrayal of stripper cheerleaders in 'The Replacements' reflect the early 2000s?
The stripper cheerleaders in 'The Replacements' are a nod to the late 90s and early 2000s culture where such elements were winked at rather than overtly sexualized. This reflects the era's approach to humor and content that was acceptable for TV.
What makes the final scene of 'The Replacements' the most rewatchable?
The final scene is memorable for its iconic quote, 'Pain heals. Chicks dig scars. Glory lasts forever,' which encapsulates the movie's theme and is a great sports movie quote. It's also a satisfying conclusion to the story.
- Initial negative reaction in 2001
- Shift in sports culture and labor discussions
- Personal reevaluation over years
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