This is a blog post from my college page. We were to create a blog about anything, I picked lacrosse naturally. About a year old and I’ve come a long way since then in writing. lottolax.wordpress.com
I hope you enjoy!
–Ian Neadle
Lacrosse is repeatedly mentioned as America’s fastest growing sport. Its economic foundation is fortified by the culture and history surrounding the sport. ESPN and local stations are televising numerous collegiate and professional lacrosse games every spring (though ESPN SportsCenter highlights have yet to notice).
When someone thinks of a sport, they can usually name a Hollywood film focusing on the sport:
Football: Remember the Titans, Rudy, Gridiron Gang, Facing the Giants, The Little Giants, Longest Yard, etc.
Hockey: Miracle, The Mighty Ducks
Baseball: The Rookie, Angels in the Outfield
What does a movie goer reminisce about when lacrosse in mentioned in conversation?
Nothing is the correct answer. Not anymore!
In 2012, Crooked Arrows hit the cinemas all across America, especially the (north)eastern edges. The film was directed by Steve Rash, an acclaimed director of the movies The Buddy Holly Story and American Pie Presents Band Camp. One of the two screenwriters of Crooked Arrows was a professor at SUNY Oswego, Brad Riddell. Coincidentally, he was also the advisor of the Men’s Club Lacrosse Team that I founded at SUNY Oswego.
I remember talking with Brad about the movie and our lacrosse team while he was signing the documents to be our official on-campus advisor.
Ian: So, what was it like working with such skilled lacrosse players on a daily basis?
Brad: Well, we needed guys that were athletic enough to just go out there and do what we scripted. At the same time, we would ask for their input if they felt a game scene could be done better from an on field perspective. It was all great, I really enjoyed it. But, you know something?
Ian: What’s that, Brad?
Brad: I worked with lacrosse players everyday and I never learned how to actually play. Not even pass or catch.
Ian: Well, I guess our team will have to help you out on that end.
Brad: Sign me up.
Brad Riddell is now a professor in Chicago, Illinois.
In screening Crooked Arrows, the cast and crew were determined to capture the sport’s history, culture, and fun. They even threw into the script some Native American and Lax Bro terminologies. A good family comedy anyone can enjoy; silly and subtle humor.
The movie takes places in Onondaga Nation Territory, following an economically struggling tribe who’s high school lacrosse team is just as challenged. Through a historical and cultural lens, a returning member (Joe Logan) is told he must return pride and success to the game and program of lacrosse if he wishes to conclude a business transaction with the tribe. Aside from a few obstacles, Joe Logan gains the trust and friendship of the tribe, team, and an ex-lover.
I loved the movie as a lax bro myself. In comparison to other films, it is a lacrosse version of the Mighty Ducks. The acting is average, the action scenes thrilling, and the message/moral enjoyable and pure. Some of the cast includes Brandon Routh, Gil Birmingham and Crystal Allen.
Watson: Arrows won’t work against body armor and machine guns.
Jimmy – Silverfoot: All it takes is one good shot.
[as they start the championship game]
