A Costly Mistake: Mike Flynt’s Fall from Glory
In 1970, college football captain Mike Flynt (Shawn Patrick Clifford) was at the top of his game and living his best life. However, one poor decision, driven by his short temper and inability to control his anger, leads to a devastating consequence: Mike breaks a teammate’s nose, costing him his position as captain and ultimately resulting in his expulsion from college. Thirty-seven years have passed, and Mike (now played by Michael Chiklis) works in the construction industry. In the present day, he still struggles with a short temper.
Family Tensions and a Strained Father-Son Relationship
Mike is married to his college sweetheart, Eileen (Mary Stuart Masterson), and they have two children, Micah (Brandon Flynn) and Lily (Audrey Lingle). His temper is not the only source of tension in the family. Mike’s relationship with Micah is often strained, with disagreements arising from Mike offering firm, unasked-for advice and sharing his opinions on Micah’s career, fitness, and other life choices. Micah grows increasingly frustrated that his father never seems to listen or understand him.
A Long-Overdue Second Chance on the Gridiron
One day, Mike receives a letter in the mail, which he initially ignores. It turns out to be an invitation to attend a reunion of the team he was part of back in 1970. When his wife discovers the invite in the bin and discusses it with him, Mike decides to attend, allowing him to confront the guilt from his past mistakes. At the reunion, Mike shares drinks with old friends and begins to make amends for his earlier choices. Since he never finished his final year, he also discovers that he is technically allowed to try out for the team he once played for. Mike sees this as a second chance to set things right, just as he should have done all those years ago. Now at 59 years old, Mike still works out, but the competition is intense, and it has been decades since he last played on the field. Will Mike be able to pass tryouts and earn a spot on the team, finally fulfilling his long-delayed second chance?
An Inspiring True Story of Redemption and Comeback
The Senior is both a sports movie and a heartfelt drama. The film is based on a true story, focusing on the ultimate comeback and was directed by Rod Lurie, whose past work includes The Outpost (2019), The Last Castle (2001), Straw Dogs (2011), The Contender (2000) and more.
Strong Performances Bring Emotional Depth to the Story
Performance-wise, Michael Chiklis is a fantastic choice as the adult Mike. He is convincing in many ways, from grappling with the impact of how his father raised him, to carrying the emotional wounds of adulthood, to confronting the shame of his past. Physically, Chiklis also looks more than capable of playing football. He displays a wide range of emotional depth throughout the film, and even when his character makes poor or rushed decisions, he remains likable. His performance is genuinely the film’s major highlight. Actress Mary Stuart Masterson as Eileen Flynt also receives a substantial amount of screen time, delivering compelling moments of drama, particularly in her interactions with her husband throughout the film, which adds further depth to the story.
Powerful Themes and Solid Pacing, Though the Finale Lacks Impact
I loved the themes explored in this story, all of which are both essential and relevant today. The film highlights the relationship between a father and son, the importance of understanding that our actions have consequences, and the value of seizing a second chance when it comes. In terms of pacing, the film does many things right, though the finale and a few obvious subplots weigh it down like a heavy tackle. The opening and story setup are fantastic, and I felt genuinely invested in the characters. The finale, while still serviceable, lacks an element of excitement or high stakes. That said, viewers who are sports fans or football enthusiasts may feel differently and find the ending more compelling.
Final Verdict: A Heartfelt and Inspiring True-Story Sports Drama
The Senior (2023) release date for Australian Cinemas is TBA
Published: 15th September 2025
Written by: Peter Walkden
CONNECT WITH PETER WALKDEN:
FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:
@walkdenentertainment / @walkdenpublicity
FOLLOW US ON LETTERBOXD:
@Peter_Walkden
THANK YOU FOR VISITING!
0 Comments