The Replacements , released in theaters on August 11, 2000, offers a lighthearted, feel-good sports story inspired by the 1987 NFL strike. When the professional players of the Washington Sentinels walk out, the team’s owner, Edward O’Neil (Jack Warden), recruits legendary coach Jimmy McGinty (Gene Hackman) to assemble a team of “scabs” to finish the season. McGinty’s motley crew is led by washed-up quarterback Shane Falco (Keanu Reeves), a former college star with a history of choking under pressure.
The team is a hilarious collection of misfits including the speedy-but-clumsy Clifford Franklin (Orlando Jones), the steroid-fueled ex-cop and linebacker Daniel Bateman (Jon Favreau), and the eccentric, chain-smoking Welsh kicker Nigel “The Leg” Gruff (Rhys Ifans).
Michael Jace appears as Earl Wilkinson aka “Ray Smith,” former star cornerback and kick returner serving a prison sentence for assaulting a police officer who is allowed to play under an alias with the permission of the governor of Maryland.
Gailard Sartain and Art LaFleur star as Coach Pilachowski and Coach Banes, the coordinators on McGinty’s coaching staff.
As they train, they face the scorn of the striking players, particularly the arrogant two-time Super Bowl winning starting quarterback Eddie Martel (Brett Cullen).
Amidst the chaos, Falco finds a romantic connection with the head cheerleader, Annabelle Farrell (Brooke Langton).
The film follows their journey as this group of unlikely heroes bonds as a team, overcomes their individual eccentricities, and finds a new purpose on the field.
John Madden and Pat Summerall portray themselves.
Howard Deutch (Some Kind of Wonderful) directed the film.
Gene Hackman and Keanu Reeves in The Replacements (Photo/Warner Bros.)
Reception for The Replacements
The Replacements grossed $11 million on its opening weekend, finishing third at the box office behind Hollow Man ($13.05 million) and Space Cowboys ($13.02 million).
The film would gross $50.1 million in its theatrical run.
Roger Ebert gave the film two out of four stars in his review.
Legacy
The Replacements has cemented its place as a beloved cult classic sports comedy. Its enduring appeal lies in its memorable characters and its heartwarming message about second chances. The film’s quotable dialogue and classic underdog narrative have made it a favorite for many.
It’s a prime example of a movie that prioritizes heart and humor over technical accuracy, creating a fun and nostalgic experience that continues to resonate with audiences.
The film’s legacy is a testament to the power of a good premise and a solid ensemble cast, proving that sometimes, the most unlikely heroes make the best stories.
