Gwinnett Daily Post

Special Photo: Warner Bros. Quinton Aaron plays Michael Oher and Sandra Bullock plays Leigh Anne Tuohy in Alcon Entertainment’s drama “The Blind Side.” 

EDITOR'S NOTE — Film Fans features local residents reviewing the film of the week: "The Blind Side." Want to be a Film Fan? E-mail features@gwinnettdailypost.com.

4 stars out of 4

The "Blind Side" scores. This heartwarming, based-on-a-true-story movie is a strong, solid film. Sandra Bullock does a wonderful job as a mom who takes "Big Mike" into her home and life. Another great performance was done by Jae Head, who played S.J., the younger, outgoing brother, who is a big help in Mike's growing football career. This movie has many meaningful moments and plenty of action and drama. Stay through the end of the credits and music to see pictures of the real family. It is a good film about believing in others and the difference you can make.

— Cindy Evans, Duluth

4 stars out of 4

I really had no expectations before going to this movie but hadn't seen one in a good while so was hoping for the best. I really felt like the male lead did an excellent job of playing the part of Michael and, except for the one scene when he went back to his old neighborhood, the movie could have been rated PG or even close to G. I laughed and cried several times and I certainly wasn't the only one in the theater experiencing those emotions. The little brother provides plenty of comic relief. Sandra Bullock does a great job, although she looks like Kathy Lee Gifford in this movie. I don't know how closely the script adhered to the true story of Michael Oher, but some will probably criticize the movie for being too sweet and "feel-good." However, I really liked it and think we can use some good news in our nation and world these days.

— J. P. Zinn, Lawrenceville

4 stars out of 4

This is one of the best movies I have seen this year. Sandra Bullock should get Best Actress for her role. The acting in this one was superb. Quinton Aaron as the lead says more with his eyes than most actors with lines. The directing was also top notch as he unfolded the story one page at a time. You connected with the characters on many layers. It was a two-hour film that never felt like it. The scene was set in Memphis, Tenn., and Old South prejudices rear their heads to be squashed quickly. The backdrop between the haves and have-nots serves to show how worlds that are mere miles apart are truly light years apart. The plot was a real-life story and it made for an amazing film. The way one can changes one's life is an inspiration for us all. If you want to see a great movie, this is it. It will bring a tear or two to your eye and that's OK.

— Chris Weinert, Lawrenceville