Brian's Song (2001)

I have not yet seen the original of this film (which I hope to do soon), so I can't comment on any differences between the 1971 and 2001 versions. I will, however, say that judging from a trailer I recently saw of the 1971 movie, it seems like many similar and sometimes exact lines were used in both films, so I am sure that they both contain much flavor and depth. This 2001 round is an emotionally heartwrenching and altogether remarkable rendition of a true story that will never be forgotten by anyone who has ever followed the Chicago Bears over the years. Mekhi Phifer (Sayers) and Sean Maher (Piccolo) have realism in their acting and knowledge of their roles, thus enabling them to become these powerful and complex characters. I especially enjoyed the performance of Sean Maher. His smile, charisma, and endearing personality made the character all the more real and convincing. This is certainly a beautiful film that touches base with many deep topics (friendship, strength through trial, etc...) and will put many varying emotions to use. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll be touched. I personally don't typically cry at movies, but this one always hits me hard. If you don't choke up or at least feel touched when Brian finally truly verbalizes his love for his wife or when Gale breaks down at the end of the movie, there's something wrong. Honestly, though, this is an outstanding movie--an excellent message. Seeing as this 2001 movie was my first introduction to the story of Brian Piccolo and Gale Sayers, I was impressed. Don't let the "trashy remake" title scare you off, because this new version has plenty of emotion and strength that has helped transform the story itself into what it remains today in the hearts of many.


The horror, the horror   September 10, 2002
Brian's song, round one, was a perfect film. I am not even going to comment on it. I am simply re-submitting comments, the first sent hours before the premiere of this disaster, that have been thrice rejected by IMDB. (they have only my old e-mail address, so I don't know why)

In seven hours, I will hear familiar music in an unfamiliar arrangement and a voice other than Jack Warden's will tell us the beginnings and the end of the tragic and moving story of Brian Piccolo, lightly regarded blocking back to the incomparable legend that is Gale Sayers.

Well, Brian Piccolo ws an outstanding football player and, by all accounts, a good and admirable man. His death was surely a tragedy and the original still makes me, ME!, cry at the scene when B.D. Williams entreats the the team to play its best in honor of Piccolo.

After the foregoing voice, it will all go down from there, your teeth will chatter, your eyes melt and your ears will bleed. Good God, didn't you learn anything from the Black Odd Couple. Don't mess with perfection. You are not artisans restoring the Sistine chapel, you work in television, television!

Don't watch this and you will be spared the wooden performance of the dude who plays Sayers and the... one playing Piccolo.

This has been a LawDog "I have not and never will see this movie" review.
Not reviewed for typos.


Brian's Song   April 2, 2002
David A Weirich (Renton, WA)
1 out of 1 found this review helpful

If you don't cry during this movie, there is something wrong with you. This is an excellent remake of the 1971 movie. Get the tissue out!