The Damned United (2009): A Movie Review and Streaming Guide
“The Damned United” (2009) is a British sports drama film directed by Tom Hooper and based on the novel of the same name by David Peace. The film explores the turbulent career of Brian Clough, a prominent English football manager, focusing on his brief and challenging tenure as the manager of Leeds United Football Club.
Plot Overview
“The Damned United” delves into the controversial and dramatic period of Brian Clough’s career, emphasizing his brief and tumultuous 44-day spell as the manager of Leeds United. The film covers several key aspects:
- Brian Clough’s Ambition: The film portrays Clough’s ambition and his previous successes with Derby County, setting the stage for his controversial appointment as manager of Leeds United, a team he had publicly criticized.
- Challenges at Leeds United: Clough faces significant challenges as he tries to transform the team’s style of play and confronts opposition from the club’s players, staff, and fans. His approach contrasts sharply with the established methods of his predecessor, Don Revie.
- Conflict and Downfall: The film captures the conflict between Clough’s revolutionary ideas and the entrenched culture of Leeds United. His inability to win over the players and his strained relationship with the club’s board lead to his swift and dramatic exit.
The narrative is based on real events but is dramatized to highlight the conflicts and personal struggles of Brian Clough during this period.
Themes and Highlights
“The Damned United” explores several themes:
- Ambition and Hubris: The film examines Clough’s ambition and confidence, portraying both his strengths and his flaws. It highlights the tension between his innovative ideas and the established football culture.
- Conflict and Identity: Central to the film is the conflict between Clough’s vision for Leeds United and the club’s traditional practices. It also explores Clough’s struggle to assert his identity in a challenging environment.
- Leadership and Legacy: The film delves into the complexities of leadership, showcasing how Clough’s unique approach affected his relationships with players and staff, and how it influenced his legacy in football.
Highlights of the film include Michael Sheen’s portrayal of Brian Clough, capturing both his charisma and his flaws. The film’s depiction of Clough’s clash with Leeds United provides a compelling look at a pivotal moment in football history.
Cinematic Style
“The Damned United” features a distinct cinematic style:
- Direction and Pacing: Directed by Tom Hooper, the film maintains a focused and engaging narrative, balancing the drama of Clough’s managerial struggles with flashbacks to his earlier successes.
- Visual and Aesthetic Choices: The film uses a combination of period-specific details and dramatic cinematography to recreate the 1970s football scene. The visual style helps to evoke the era and the intensity of Clough’s experience.
- Music and Soundtrack: The film’s score complements the dramatic tone, with music that enhances the emotional and tense moments of the narrative.
Legacy
“The Damned United” received positive reviews for its engaging portrayal of Brian Clough and its insight into a significant period in English football history. The film is notable for its strong performances, particularly by Michael Sheen, and its effective dramatization of real events.
The film contributes to the broader understanding of Brian Clough’s impact on football and his complex personality, making it a valuable watch for fans of the sport and those interested in sports history.
Where to Watch “The Damned United” Online
As of 2024, “The Damned United” is available on several streaming platforms and rental services. Here are some options for viewers in the United States:
1. Amazon Prime Video
“The Damned United” is available for rental or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. Rental prices typically start at $3.99, with purchasing options ranging from $9.99 to $14.99. The film is available in HD with English subtitles.
2. Google Play Movies & TV
Google Play Movies & TV offers The Damned United for both rental and purchase. Rentals usually cost around $3.99, with purchasing options available for $9.99 to $12.99. The film can be streamed on various devices with English subtitles.
3. Apple iTunes
Apple iTunes provides The Damned United for rental and purchase. Rental prices typically start at $3.99, with the purchase price ranging from $9.99 to $14.99. The film is available in HD with subtitle options.
4. Hulu
The film may be available on Hulu as part of their movie collection. Checking the platform for current availability and regional restrictions is recommended.
5. HBO Max
The Damned United may be available on HBO Max. Checking the platform for current availability is advisable.
Conclusion
“The Damned United” (2009) offers a gripping and dramatized look at a significant chapter in Brian Clough’s career, focusing on his challenging tenure at Leeds United. Directed by Tom Hooper and featuring a standout performance by Michael Sheen, the film provides an engaging portrayal of ambition, conflict, and leadership in the world of football. Available on various streaming platforms, The Damned United is a must-watch for football enthusiasts and those interested in sports history.
