I really liked this movie, but I hope that it doesn't win the Oscar. Of the movies I've seen in 2005, it ranks behind Hotel Rwanda, Sideways, and the Aviator. But that's just my opinion.

Clint Eastwood did give his best performance ever though and that is really significant. There have been some really great performances this year, and I won't be *too* upset should any of the nominated actors win the Oscar.

Hillary Swank is brilliant. And that's there is to say on that. She's great, and she keeps getting better with every performance.

Morgan Freeman is...well Morgan Freeman. I think he's incredible and is ALWAYS incredible. This is one of his best performances.

The movie took an unexpected turn, that had someone not told me was coming, I would have never suspected. I don't want to give anything away, but this was one of the better "sports as metaphor for life" movies I've ever seen.

Good stuff. I won't riot should it win the Oscar, but I feel that there are more deserving films.

matt out