"The Blind Side"

Rated PG-13
2 hour 5 minutes

Starring: Sandra Bullock, Quinton Aaron, Kathy Bates, Tim McGraw, Ray McKinnon

You'll hardly ever go wrong putting your money on the sentimental exploits of the poverty stricken teenager rising from nothing to become a heartwarming success.

With Sandra Bullock playing his feisty benefactor, "The Blind Side" becomes an inspiring delight. It's s true story about overcoming impossible odds. We soon find out that with a southern belle like Bullock, nothing's impossible.

Bullock's got a soft spot for the homeless kid with the sweet disposition. Newcomer Quinton Aaron's sensitive demeanor plays off Bullock's fiery determination beautifully.

The matron of the deep South single-handedly molds this shy, frightened teenager out of the shadows and into a glorious future on the gridiron, and this actually did happen. Heaven help Bullock's circle of privileged ladies who lunch when they fail to grasp the depth of her commitment.

Throw in a fine, featured performance from Kathy Bates as big Mike's devoted tutor, and we've got ourselves a well rounded slice of feel good drama. You'll love the chemistry Bates and Bullock generate together. But even more to the point, when big Mike reaches out and melts away Bullock's gruff exterior.

What a touching, finely crafted film this is. "The "Blind Side" keeps its eye on the ball for a crowd-pleasing 3 stars. I just love it when a good movie tugs away at your heartstrings.