All Madden

Released in 2021, All Madden is a sports documentary that celebrates and explores the impressive, compelling life and career of the inimitable John Madden. Directed by Joe Lavine and Thaddeus D. Matula, the movie demonstrates how Madden transitioned from a winning NFL coach to a timeless icon etched into the fabric of American football.

The documentary introduces viewers to Madden's humble beginnings. It traces Madden's roots from his childhood days playing football in the schoolyard, then through his football career at the University of Oregon and his short stint with the Philadelphia Eagles. Far from a straightforward success story, it highlights the resilience of a young man who, after a career-ending knee injury, channeled his passion for football into coaching, landing his first head coaching job with the Oakland Raiders in 1969.

As head coach of the Raiders, Madden became renowned for his unorthodox coaching methods, his colorful and lively personality, and his impressive success rate. The documentary takes us into the inner workings of two decades of his coaching career, highlighting his unique knack for identifying talent in overlooked places, his rapport with players, and the inspiring leadership that led him to become the youngest coach to reach 100 career regular-season victories, a record he still holds today.

One of the most significant aspects of All Madden is its exploration of Madden's influence beyond the field. After retiring from coaching, Madden embarked on a broadcasting career that forever changed the way fans consume football. He made it both informative and fun, breaking down plays with excitement and a sense of humor that made the sport accessible to fans of all levels of understanding. He didn't just describe the games; he educated viewers about the nuances of the sport with his signature "Madden-isms," graphical telestration, and his distinct, enthusiastic voice.

This documentary also delves into Madden's impactful transition into the realm of video games with the creation of the beloved, best-selling franchise, "Madden NFL". The video game series revolutionized the gaming industry, brought football into the homes of millions, and helped Madden reach an even larger audience, making him a household name even among those who had never watched him on the sidelines or in the broadcast booth.

All Madden assembles an impressive list of interviewees, giving viewers a well-rounded look at Madden's life and legacy. Interviews with former players, coaches, broadcasters, and even some of the biggest names in football reveal the man behind the legend. Their testimonials underscore Madden's invaluable contribution to the sport, his immeasurable impact on the people around him, and his enduring influence on the generations that followed.

We also see a more private side of Madden with insights into his personal life. His love for family, friends, and passion for life outside of football is touching to watch. Unseen clips from his coaching days, his broadcasting career, outtakes, and home videos offer a close-up of the man who is more than a successful coach, TV personality, and gaming figurehead.

Visually, All Madden is well-crafted, utilizing historic footage, personal archives, and noteworthy broadcast moments on both big and small scale. It uses unconventional camera angles to create an immersive experience that not only tells the tale but places viewers right in the middle of Madden’s world. The documentary effortlessly manages to make the past feel urgent and exciting.

John Madden maintained an attachment to and love for the sport that remained undimmed throughout his retirement, evident in his tireless dedication to promote the game and its players. More than just a biography, All Madden is an ode to a man's love for football and his commitment to make it beloved by others. His professional achievements are staggering. Still, beyond that, he indelibly impacted the way the game is perceived and understood, leaving both a professional and cultural legacy far beyond what anyone might have anticipated.

In conclusion, All Madden is more than just a sports documentary. It is a celebration of the remarkable life and lasting legacy of a man who transcended his successful coaching and broadcasting careers to play a significant role in changing the way people engage with football today. Whether you’re a fan of Madden himself, the game of football, sports history, or engaging biographies, this film offers an accessible and thoroughly captivating experience.