“The Damned United” is not a romance, but it’s still a real love story. It’s between legendary, egomaniacal soccer coach Brian Clough (Michael Sheen) and his quiet assistant, talent spotter Peter Taylor (Timothy Spall) whose invisible but crucial support is only appreciated after the arrogant Clough drives him away.
Clough spent a whole 44 days as coach of the super team Leeds United, and can’t stand it that previous coach Don Revie (Colm Meaney, a dead ringer for the real guy) is practically worshipped by sports fans. All the actors inhabit their roles with perfection, and Tom Hooper’s direction (from a deft script by Peter “Frost/Nixon” Morgan) captures a modern retelling of the story of the prideful Icarus. (Read more…) Rated: R (language). 97 minutes.
Opens Friday, October 16 at Pipers Alley in Chicago.