The Damned United

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Courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics
UK • 2009 • in English • 97 min • R

Set in 1960’s and 1970’s England, The Damned United tells the confrontational and darkly humorous story of Brian Clough’s doomed 44 day tenure as manager of the reigning champions of English football Leeds United. Previously managed by his bitter rival Don Revie, and on the back of their most successful period ever as a football club, Leeds was perceived by many to represent a new aggressive and cynical style of football - an anathema to the principled yet flamboyant Brian Clough, who had achieved astonishing success as manager of Hartlepool and Derby County building teams in his own vision with trusty lieutenant Peter Taylor. Taking the Leeds job without Taylor by his side, with a changing room full of what in his mind were still Don’s boys, would lead to an unheralded examination of Clough’s belligerence and brilliance over 44 days. This is that story. The story of The Damned United.

The Damned United stars Michael Sheen as the legendary, opinionated football manager Brian Clough with Timothy Spall as his right hand man, only friend, and crutch Peter Taylor. Colm Meaney plays Clough’s nemesis Don Revie, Jim Broadbent plays Sam Longson, Derby Chairman. Stephen Graham plays Leeds Captain Billy Bremner and Peter McDonald his midfield partner Johnny Giles.

Club reactions by city:

moderated by Matthew Bernstein
with guest George Robinson, Jewish Week Film Critic

Michael Sheen was fabulous. I don't care about sports but Sheen was so captivating it doesn't matter.

I haven't been touched by a film to the point of tears in a very LONG time, but the reconciliation scene between Brian and Pete did just that. This was a brilliant portrayal of a man and his distorted self-images, all of which Michael Sheen inhabits completely.

Beautiful look to the film--set the era very well. The costumes, sets, hair, etc. were amazing and drew me back to that time.

moderated by Linda Dittmar
with guest Frank Dell'Apa, Boston Globe Sports Critic

Excellent! A ‘sports’ movie about so much more—relationships, economics, ambition, patriarchy, psychology—and atmospheric and artful as well. Bravo!

I did not expect to like this and I thought it was excellent—well plotted, well acted, excellent cinematography that recalled the era and created ‘edge.’ I appreciated the character development and human relationships.

Thought there was some contradiction within characters and motivation. The most important underlying theme was the relationship between the two men (Taylor and Clough), yet it was just suggested at, not fully examined. I would see this film on tv but not at the movies.

moderated by Patrice Petro and Gilberto Blasini

I hate football but I loved this film and its exploration of relationships through gritty realism (that the film captured so well).

Michael Sheen's acting was extraordinary. His ability ot appropriately convey a pivotal moment in a man's life was exceptionally moving. His discomfort made me feel very sympathetic. I enjoyed getting some background about English football as well.

Michael Sheen was superb making Clough a likeable character. You root for him throughout the film. The friendship between Clough and Taylor is beautifully realized. The football scenes and footage were great too!

moderated by Michael Kerbel
with guest George Robinson, Jewish Week Film Critic

I didn’t think I would like this movie but it really surprised me: I loved it! Can't wait until it comes out so my husband can see it.

Michael Sheen is one of the best character actors today. Every role he plays is masterfully performed. He, Jim Broadbent, Tim Spall brought the story to life. I don't know the first thing about football (soccer), and the best thing is I didn't need to. Very enjoyable story about a very colorful person.

Lack of knowledge about subject, difficulty understanding English accents, continuing to go back and forth in time made this difficult for me – but I'd see it again.

moderated by Peter L. Stein

I thought this was going to be the usual 'unlikely rise to the top' sports films and was pleasantly surprised to have it turn to the dark (realistic) side.

I unabashedly loved this movie, much to my surprise. Michael Sheen is just so impressive, so in command of his perforamnce, totally inhabiting the cockiness, the ego, the confidence, yet he could change on a dime to reveal moments of doubt and disappointment. Loved the 'love story' of two friends, so well depicted.

This is why I love the Cinema Club - a film I would never ever choose to see on my own that turns out be excellent and very original. The best love story I've seen in ages. (Stellar acting, writing and cinmeatography.) Replacing sports movie clichés with a private moment of redemptive love was brilliant (even if not historically accurate). Women will love this film IF they'll see it...

moderated by Diane Carson
with guest Mike Muschick, Referee and former professional soccer player

Hands down the best movie I've seen at movie club in the last 2 years. It was successful on every level, everything a movie should be. You learn something, just great movie making!

Crisp script that really kicked 'arse.' Best demonstration of 'guy camaraderie,' real male friendship, serendipity. Good to see--we don't see enough of this. Acting superb. I LOVED the film -- me, a girl!!

Liked the movie! Even though I'm not a soccer fan, I'm a rabid Minnesota Vikings fan so I understand players, coaches, rivalries, and the importance of winning.