Jerry Bruckheimer isn't known for restraint and subtlety when it comes to film. As enjoyable as they are, films like Armageddon, Con Air, and The Rock are merely eye candy. Earlier this summer, Bruckheimer set his sights in a different direction, going back to the days of Flashdance, with the dreadfully dull Coyote Ugly. Now he tackles sports and racism with Remember the Titans, a sometimes rousing but mostly pretentious picture that could have used a better screenplay. Denzel Washington plays Herman Boone, a man who finds himself the coach of a football team at a newly integrated high school, circa 1971. Through most of the film, Boone strives to get the black and white players to work as a team. This is no easy task since this true story takes place in Virginia during a really rough time.

When Remember the Titans does work, it's usually because of strong performances and good chemistry between the cast. Washington is solid, although this certainly is no stretch for him. The most noteworthy performances came from Will Patton (No Way Out) as an assistant coach who'd been replaced by Boone, Ryan Hurst (Saving Private Ryan) as a team captain who learns to trust his teammates no matter what color they are, Wood Harris as a quarterback who also learns the new meaning of trust, and Ethan Suplee (Mallrats), a huge, lovable line- backer that seems to get along with everybody. Not faring as well is the over used Hayden Panettiere as Patton's obnoxious daughter, although she does have an inspiring scene in which she argues about game plays with Washington. I didn't care much for Kip Pardue either. His long haired hippy just didn't seem to fit into the film.

Screenwriter Gregory Allen Howard uses far too many obvious racial themes. Yes, these were turbulent times, but a little restraint would have been nice. The same goes for the rest of the story. You can almost predict what is going to happen from one scene to the next. Although well intentioned, Remember The Titans is far too predictable. I give a lot of credit to director Boaz Yakin for working well with actors and really getting the best from all involved. It is disheartening, however, that such a talented director could make such an unpredictable and original film as Fresh, then be all but forced to take part in a big, obvious film like Remember the Titans. I'm guessing this is going to lead to better things. After all is said and done, I sort of enjoyed Remember the Titans for what it is. I wouldn't put it in the same league as Hoosiers or Rudy, but it wasn't bad. It should also be noted that this is a film that you can take the whole family to. That in itself is quite refreshing.