The Damned United (Sony Pictures Classics)
Michael Sheen Is A Chameleon
Michael Sheen has played Prime Minister Tony Blair, television interviewer David Frost, and now football manager Brian Clough in The Damned United. In each of these roles Sheen has totally immersed himself and become that person. It appears Sheen is a chameleon, and that is one of the greatest complements you can pay an actor.
The Damned United is a true story based on the career of football manager, or in American words soccer coach, Brian Clough. He had a rivalry with another coach, Don Revie (Colm Meaney), that obsessed him.
Clough was coaching in Derby when he got the chance to play the Leeds United team. Revie was the coach of that team and he accompanied his men to Derby for the game. Clough was all excited about meeting his idol but the meeting never took place. Leeds won the game and then Revie got back on his bus and left. He never spoke to Clough.
This snub ate at Clough for years and his desire to best Revie became an obsession. It was more important that his word, his friendships and ultimately his career. His ego had been bruised and this colored just about everything he did in his life.
Sheen is amazingly good in his role as Clough. Through his perceptive acting you understand completely the mans obsessive behavior. Clough tries to cover it all up with bravado but it doesnt work. Everyone knows how obsessed he is and it affects their relationships with the man.
One of those affected is Peter Taylor (Timothy Spall). Peter is Cloughs assistant and best friend. Together they make a formidable pair. He knows Cloughs strengths and weaknesses but the Revie obsession puts a strain on their friendship and working relationship.
Spall doesnt just cower in Sheens shadow. He too brings his character vividly to life. The audience feels Peters hurts and pains, and are always on his side thanks to Spalls likeability
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Other standout members of the cast are Meaney as Revie and Jim Broadbent as the owner of Cloughs first team. Even the smallest of parts are picture perfect for the film and help create the total believability of the story.
The film is rated R for profanity.
The Damned United is a character driven film. It is all about Brian Clough and his ego. That should spell boredom but in the hands of Director Tom Hooper and actors Sheen and Spall it will totally fascinate you.
This is a movie that is very good and the acting is even better. That means it is one you should see.
I scored The Damned United a cohesive 7 out of 10.
