Gracie: Kicking Expectations

Alright, grab a coffee or maybe a kopp te if you’re reading this in Sweden, because we’re diving into “Gracie.” Directed by the renowned Davis Guggenheim, who you probably know from “An Inconvenient Truth,” this film is a bit of a gem. Starring Carly Schroeder, who you may not know yet – but you will, trust me. Her role as Gracie is like watching a young Pia Sundhage with more drama and a better soundtrack.

You know, I always had a soft spot for sports films. I remember those Saturdays in Värmland with pappa, watching IFK Göteborg while munching på en korv med bröd. So Gracie’s struggle to play football in a male-dominated world hit me right in the nostalgic nerves. The film pulls no punches when showing the raw determination of a young girl trying to break into a boys’ team. That’s some serious Guts, or should I say “jäklar anamma,” for my fellow Swedes.

What surprised me, though, was the emotional depth. I thought it might be a typical feel-good flick. But, honestly, the family dynamics and grief element caught me off guard. Elisabeth Shue, playing Gracie’s mum, brings this nuanced performance with just the right amount of gravitas. Almost like when mum would whip out the serious och allvarliga snack earlier at the kitchen table.

The pacing, however, kinda dragged in parts. There are moments where I thought, “alltså, kan vi skynda på lite?” And the soundtrack—though mostly banging—edges into the cheesy realm now and then. But maybe that’s just me being a grumpy old sod.

Anyway, if you love a good underdog story with a sprinkle of 70s nostalgia, “Gracie” is your go-to. It’s more than football – it’s about heart, family, and kickin’ up against the odds. Go watch it and let’s chat more about it. Skål!

Check the trailer below