Concussion – Budget of $35 million – 2 hours 2 minutes

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In September 2002, Dr. Bennet Omalu, a forensic pathologist for the Allegheny County Corner’s Office, work carefully with his patients to find out not just how they died, but why they died.  This meticulous attention to detail drives him to find out why a healthy, 50 year old “Iron Mike” Webster died.  Omalu discovers the horrific brain trauma Mike suffered and notes that this is the true cause of his death.  As this discovery is being made, more  NFL players die.  Omalu, along with Dr. Julian Bailes, ask their surviving family members to let Dr. Omalu test their brain for that same head trauma.  Omalu and several doctors work together to publish and name their finding: Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy or CTE.  It’s not long before the NFL gets wind of the publication and goes on the defense.  Dr. Omalu and his wife, Prema, are faced with harassment, legal battles, and public shaming.

Based on the book, Concussion, this movie is a lot like Dr. Omalu, it doesn’t discuss not just how he found CTE, but why he found it and everything that happened after (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer).  This is a medical drama, sports drama, conspiracy drama, and love story all in one.  You are soon left to examine how much power the NFL has in America.  And you will have a deep concern for all past, current, and future football players.  On the other side, the camera working leaves much to be desired.  During one of the most powerful scene in the movie, Will Smith’s face is cut off, ruining the intensity.  Also, the deals and negotiations behind NFL close doors, although impossible, would have been great to witness.

I give it 4.5 out of 5 stars

Need is not weak.  Need is need. – Dr. Bennet Omalu

Oil and tires.  It’s mechanics trying to keep race cars on the track – Dr. Julian Bailes

You should be careful Danny.  One day I may be rushing through you autopsy – Dr. Bennet Omalu

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