Past the Bleachers

Past the Bleachers is a 1995 American drama film directed by Michael Switzer and starring Richard Dean Anderson, Barnard Hughes, and Glynnis O'Connor. The movie was adapted from the novel of the same name written by Joe Mitchell Chapple.

The story takes place in the small town of Freeport, where high school football coach Charlie Gooden (Richard Dean Anderson) is the town's beloved hero. One day, a tragedy strikes the town when Charlie's son Timmy (Nick Stahl) dies in a car accident. This devastating event shakes the entire town to its core and puts a strain on everyone's relationships.

Charlie's wife, Mary Jo (Glynnis O'Connor), is emotionally devastated by the loss of her son and withdraws from her husband. Charlie, on the other hand, becomes obsessed with seeking revenge on the driver responsible for Timmy's death. The situation becomes even more complicated when the driver, Chris (Corey Sevier), turns out to be the son of Charlie's longtime friend and assistant coach, Pete (Barnard Hughes).

As Charlie goes through the grieving process, he begins to understand the value of forgiveness and the importance of accepting his loss. The film deals with themes of love, forgiveness, and the bond between a father and a son.

Richard Dean Anderson delivers an earnest and heartfelt performance as Coach Charlie Gooden. He portrays a man who is consumed by grief and anger with great sensitivity and nuance. Barnard Hughes brings his characteristic warmth and affability to the role of Pete, Charlie's loyal friend and assistant coach. Glynnis O'Connor gives an emotionally charged performance as Mary Jo, a mother struggling to come to terms with the loss of her son.

The movie's cinematography is simple yet elegant, with an emphasis on the feelings of the characters rather than grandiose visuals. The pace of the movie is slow and measured, allowing the audience to truly feel the weight of the characters' emotions.

Overall, Past the Bleachers is a poignant and affecting drama that deals with the universal theme of loss and its impact on relationships. It is a movie that speaks to the heart and leaves a lasting impression on its viewers.