Concussion Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A Nigerian doctor discovers football gives people the big dumb, then yells at the sport until America maybe kinda listens, but probably not.

🍿 Concussion: Detailed Plot Synopsis

The Discovery of CTE

In 2002, Dr. Bennet Omalu, a forensic pathologist in Pittsburgh, performs the autopsy on former NFL player Mike Webster, who died unexpectedly. Omalu, intrigued by Webster’s mental decline prior to his death, conducts extensive research on Webster’s brain. He discovers significant damage and identifies a new disease, Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), linked to repeated head trauma.

Fighting the NFL

Omalu’s findings are met with resistance from the NFL, which disputes the connection between football and brain damage. He faces pressure to retract his statements and is ostracized by some in the medical community. Despite the challenges, Omalu perseveres, driven by his commitment to the truth and the well-being of the players. He gains allies in Dr. Julian Bailes and Dr. Cyril Wecht, who support his research and help him navigate the complex world of sports medicine.

Personal Sacrifices

As Omalu continues his research, he and his wife, Prema, face increasing pressure and threats. His professional life is jeopardized, and they experience personal hardship. Despite the difficulties, Omalu remains dedicated to his cause, determined to bring awareness to the dangers of CTE and protect future generations of athletes. His unwavering commitment highlights the personal sacrifices required when challenging powerful institutions.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Dr. Bennet Omalu (Will Smith): A determined forensic neuropathologist who discovers CTE in football players and faces opposition from the NFL.
• Dr. Julian Bailes (Alec Baldwin): An NFL team doctor who initially supports the league but eventually sides with Dr. Omalu and his research.
• Mike Webster (David Morse): A former NFL player whose deteriorating mental state and death leads to Dr. Omalu’s groundbreaking discovery.
• Prema Mutiso (Gugu Mbatha-Raw): Dr. Omalu’s supportive wife who faces personal challenges due to his controversial research.
• Dr. Cyril Wecht (Albert Brooks): Dr. Omalu’s boss and mentor who supports his research but faces legal troubles as a result.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Dr. Bennet Omalu: “Tell the truth.” – Dr. Omalu implores others, including Dr. Maroon, to acknowledge the truth about CTE, no matter how uncomfortable.
• Dr. Bennet Omalu: “Need is not weak. Need is need. You have to be the best version of yourself. If you don’t know what that is, you pick something and fake it.” – Dr. Omalu comforts Prema when she is reluctant to accept financial help, encouraging her to find her strength.
• Dr. Bennet Omalu: “I am an American citizen. I’m not going anywhere.” – Dr. Omalu defiantly declares his commitment to staying in America and fighting for the truth, despite facing immense pressure.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $35,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $34,542,474
• Worldwide Gross: $48,623,572

💥 Concussion Reviews

Personal Review

This movie really hit me hard. I knew about CTE, but seeing the human toll was devastating. Will Smith was incredible, completely disappearing into the role of Dr. Omalu. The scenes with Mike Webster struggling were heartbreaking. I left the theater questioning everything I thought I knew about football and the sacrifices players make. Definitely worth watching, but be prepared for a tough emotional ride. Some of those details about the NFL cover ups were shocking.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of biographical dramas”
  • “Those interested in sports-related social issues”
  • “Viewers who appreciate strong performances from Will Smith and Alec Baldwin”
  • “Individuals interested in medical dramas and scientific discovery”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Scenes depicting graphic autopsies”
  • “Discussion of suicide and mental illness”
  • “Thematic elements related to head trauma and brain injury”
  • “Some strong language”

Professional Reviews

• The New York Times: “Will Smith delivers a compelling performance as Dr. Omalu, but the film suffers from a predictable ‘David vs. Goliath’ narrative. While the subject matter is important, the execution lacks the necessary punch to truly resonate.
• Rolling Stone: “Smith shines as Dr. Omalu, bringing a quiet intensity to the role. The film tackles a controversial topic with sensitivity, though it occasionally veers into melodrama. It serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of America’s favorite sport.
• Variety: “Concussion tells an important story, but the direction is somewhat heavy-handed. Smith’s committed performance elevates the material, highlighting the ethical dilemmas faced by Dr. Omalu. A thought-provoking film that sparks necessary conversation.

Audience Reactions

Will Smith’s portrayal of Dr. Omalu was captivating and truly brought the story to life.: Viewers praised Will Smith’s performance and the film’s exposure of a critical health issue.

The film sparked important discussions about player safety in football and the NFL’s responsibility.: Many viewers felt the film was eye-opening and raised important questions about the future of football.

Overall Consensus: Concussion is a well-intentioned, though somewhat flawed, drama that brings attention to the serious issue of CTE in football. Will Smith’s performance is widely praised, but the film’s execution is seen as uneven.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film is based on the GQ article “Game Brain” by Jeanne Marie Laskas.”
• “Will Smith received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor – Motion Picture Drama for his portrayal of Dr. Bennet Omalu.”
• “To prepare for his role, Will Smith spent time with Dr. Bennet Omalu to study his mannerisms and accent.”

🖥️ How to Watch Concussion?

Concussion is currently available for streaming on platforms such as Netflix. You can also rent or purchase the movie on demand through Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, and Vudu. Check your local listings for potential broadcast schedules on cable or satellite TV.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Concussion, you might like these similar films:

• The Insider (1999): Both films depict an individual taking on a powerful corporation (tobacco industry in The Insider) to expose a dangerous truth.
• Spotlight (2015): Spotlight follows a team of journalists uncovering a scandal, much like Concussion focuses on Dr. Omalu’s investigation and fight for recognition.
• Erin Brockovich (2000): A woman takes on a giant energy corporation that is poisoning an entire town.
• Dark Waters (2019): A corporate environmental defense lawyer takes on a case against a chemical company after they contaminate a town with unregulated chemicals.

🛒 Concussion Related Products

• Concussion [Blu-ray]: Own the powerful story on Blu-ray, featuring behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with the cast and crew. Experience the film in high definition with enhanced audio for a more immersive viewing experience.
• League of Denial: The NFL, Concussions, and the Battle for Truth: Explore the detailed investigation that inspired the movie. Dive deeper into the science behind CTE and the NFL’s response to the growing crisis with this book.
• NFL 2K23: This is the perfect game that will give you the thrills of playing football, while being aware and having safety always in the back of your head. Enjoy playing Football.
• CTE Awareness Ribbon Pin: Show your support for CTE awareness with this ribbon pin. A subtle yet meaningful way to raise awareness and support research efforts. High-quality enamel pin.

🎧 Soundtrack

Concussion features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Happy Birthday To You” – performed by Traditional
• “Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)” – performed by Marvin Gaye
• “Bridge Over Troubled Water” – performed by Simon & Garfunkel

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Will Smith’s Nigerian Accent Transformation

Curious about Will Smith’s journey to transform into a Nigerian immigrant? This video offers an entertaining glimpse into his experience and the work he put into perfecting the accent. It’s a fascinating watch that makes you appreciate the preparation that goes into acting.

The Impact of Brain Injuries on MMA Fighters

If you’re interested in learning more about the real-world implications of head injuries, this video dives into the case of a former MMA fighter and the visible changes in his speech over time. It’s a thought-provoking look at the long-term effects of concussions and CTE.

✨ Rate