Where to watch American Anthem
2 Stars
A couple of rousing training montages set to John Parr’s music creates an effective sense of mood and importance. Unfortunately too many scenes are punctuated with stilted dialogue and moments of (unintentional) hilarity. Gaylord had the charisma to make a capable leading man and it’s a shame this film treats him like a ‘teen beat’ cover model and not a serious athlete. Resulting in an one and done as far as starring in a major motion picture, although he would find a long career as a stunt man most notably for Chris O’ Donnell in the Batman movies. A relic from the 1980’s complete with hammy performances, workout sequences in a rainy downpour and love scenes draped in blue lighting. One of the worst Rocky-style knock-offs from a decade full of them.
Director: Albert Magnoli
Stars: Mitch Gaylord, Janet Jones, Michelle Phillips