The Damned United
Seen it?2009 | 97 min | Drama, History
Sunday Safe BetWhy it’s a Sunday Safe Bet
Critics loved it (92% on Rotten Tomatoes), though it had a box office loss. A safe bet when you want something reliable.
Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.Is it for you?
- Who'll love it
- Made for history buffs. Critics rate it higher than audiences do, so it rewards patience more than it chases thrills.
- The mood
- Thoughtful and character-driven.
- The pace
- Takes its time with its characters, at 1 hr 37 min.
- What might put you off
- Rated R: meant for adults.
- Audiences were cooler on it than critics.
Taking over Leeds United, Brian Clough's abrasive approach and his clear dislike of the players' dirty style of play make it certain there is going to be friction. Glimpses of his earlier career help explain both his hostility to previous manager Don Revie and how much he is missing right-hand man Peter Taylor.
How it earned its rating
- CriticsVery strong
92% on Rotten Tomatoes, 81 on Metacritic
- AudiencesSolid
7.2 out of 10
- AwardsWeak
0 wins and 5 nominations from smaller awards and festivals
- Box office & staying powerBelow par
$4 million worldwide on a $6 million budget; still draws a steady audience long after release
- Buzz & cultural impactSolid
About 138K people sought it out in the past year, and interest is climbing
Trailer
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Cast & crew
Directed by Tom Hooper
- Michael SheenBrian Clough
- Timothy SpallPeter Taylor
- Colm MeaneyDon Revie
- Jim BroadbentSam Longson
- Maurice RoëvesJimmy Gordon
- Stephen GrahamBilly Bremner
- Henry GoodmanManny Cossins
- Mark BazeleyAustin Mitchell
- Giles AldersonColin Todd
- Martin CompstonJohn O'Hare