Greater (2013)
Synopsis:
Greater tells the incredible true story of Brandon Burlsworth, who became the greatest walk-on in college football history. This inspiring family drama follows Brandon's remarkable journey from an unlikely candidate to a celebrated player, defying expectations and proving that determination can overcome any obstacle. With the support of his brother Marty and mother Barbara, Brandon pursues his dream despite facing skepticism from coaches and others who doubt his abilities. The film chronicles his perseverance, faith, and unwavering commitment to excellence both on and off the field. Through hard work and dedication, Brandon transforms himself into an exceptional athlete, earning respect and recognition in a sport where he was initially overlooked. This uplifting story celebrates the power of believing in yourself and never giving up on your dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem.
Where To Watch: Greater
Parental Feedback
Greater carries a steady, earnest tone rooted in faith and perseverance, following the true story of a college football walk-on who defies expectations through determination and hard work. Parents should expect an emotionally driven narrative with moments of triumph and loss, minimal humor, and a deliberate pace that emphasizes character development over action. The film's PG-13 rating reflects some intense emotional scenes and thematic weight surrounding ambition, family bonds, and tragedy, making it most suitable for families prepared to discuss resilience and the unpredictability of life.
Why Kids Should Watch Greater
This family drama offers several meaningful lessons that resonate with young viewers navigating their own challenges and aspirations.
The story models exceptional perseverance and work ethic, showing how dedication and self-belief can help overcome obstacles that others consider insurmountable. Brandon Burlsworth's journey from overlooked walk-on to celebrated player demonstrates that success often requires patience and relentless effort.
Strong family relationships anchor the narrative, particularly the supportive bond between Brandon and his brother Marty, illustrating how encouragement from loved ones can fuel personal growth. These portrayals offer children positive examples of familial loyalty and unconditional support.
The film reinforces values of humility, kindness, and treating others with respect regardless of status or ability. Brandon's character consistently demonstrates grace under pressure and compassion toward teammates, providing a clear model of integrity.
Faith plays a central role without being preachy, showing how spiritual grounding can provide strength during difficult times. This aspect may resonate with families seeking content that acknowledges religious belief as part of a balanced life.
Why Kids Shouldn't Watch Greater
Despite its uplifting message, certain elements may prove challenging for younger or more sensitive viewers.
The film includes emotionally intense moments, particularly surrounding loss and tragedy, that could be difficult for children to process without parental guidance. These scenes, while handled respectfully, carry significant emotional weight that may overwhelm some viewers.
The runtime of over two hours combined with a slower, character-focused pace may test the attention span of younger children accustomed to faster-moving entertainment. The deliberate storytelling style prioritizes emotional depth over constant action or visual excitement.
Some thematic content about ambition, disappointment, and life's unpredictability may raise complex questions that require thoughtful family discussion afterward. Parents should be prepared to help children process themes that don't always offer simple or happy resolutions.
Verdict: Parent Approved
Greater earns approval for families seeking an inspirational true story that celebrates perseverance, faith, and character, though parents should consider their child's emotional maturity and readiness for its heavier themes.
What Parents Should Know About Greater
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this Movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | Yes, the film consistently models hard work, humility, respect for others, and perseverance through challenges that children can apply to their own lives. |
| Does this Movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | Yes, the film contains emotionally intense scenes involving loss and tragedy that may require parental support to help younger viewers process appropriately. |
| Does this Movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | The film focuses primarily on positive character traits rather than depicting significant negative behavior, though it does show how dedication leads to reward and recognition. |
| Does this Movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | Yes, teamwork and mutual support among players and family members are central themes, demonstrating how collaboration and encouragement benefit everyone involved. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | Yes, children will understand that persistence, faith, and treating others with kindness can lead to meaningful achievement, even when facing significant obstacles. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Parents generally appreciate the film's wholesome approach to storytelling and its emphasis on character, faith, and family values. Many note that it provides a refreshing alternative to content saturated with cynicism or inappropriate material, offering instead a genuine portrayal of determination and integrity. Some parents caution that the emotional intensity and tragic elements require preparation, particularly for sensitive children, and recommend watching together to facilitate discussion. The runtime and pacing receive mixed reactions, with some families finding the deliberate storytelling meaningful while others feel younger children may struggle to remain engaged. Overall, parents view it as a valuable tool for teaching life lessons about perseverance, humility, and the importance of supporting one another through challenges.
Official Greater Trailer
Why Kids Love Greater
Brandon Burlsworth steps onto the college football field as an underdog walk-on, facing massive players and impossible odds. Kids love watching him prove everyone wrong through sheer determination, transforming from an overlooked nobody into a powerhouse on the gridiron. Every practice becomes a mini-battle where he refuses to quit.
The football action delivers hard-hitting excitement as Brandon crashes through defensive lines and makes game-changing plays. Coach Bender and Coach Ford push their team through intense drills and nail-biting competitions. The roar of the crowd and the clash of helmets create pulse-pounding moments that keep young viewers on the edge of their seats.
Brandon's brother Marty and his mom Barbara stand by him through every challenge, creating a tight-knit team off the field. Kids connect with the family's unwavering support as Brandon faces down doubters and naysayers. The Farmer and other mentors offer wisdom that helps Brandon navigate his epic journey from walk-on to champion.
Young audiences cheer as Brandon earns respect through spectacular performances, proving that heart matters more than size. His unique path from overlooked player to team leader inspires kids who feel underestimated. Every touchdown and tackle shows that standing up for yourself can lead to incredible victories.