The Waterboy

***
UK Release Date: April 30th 1999

A waterboy for a college football team discovers he has a unique tackling ability and becomes a member of the team.

Director: Frank Coraci (Click, Zookeeper, Here Comes the Boom)

Starring: Adam Sandler, Kathy Bates, Henry Winkler, Fairuza Balk

An Adam Sandler film that's worth watching! The likes of Grown Ups 2 and Jack and Jill are just atrocious as Sandler's films go, but step back 15 or so years then you're in for some treats.

The Waterboy is a light film that's simple but with a fictional story not to be taken seriously. Enjoy it for what it is and it's loads of fun. This is not meant to be anything but entertaining.

Sandler is Bobby Boucher, a dimwitted fellow who takes pride in providing 'high quality H20' to the local football team. After being sacked (becaise he's a major distraction to the players), Bobby lands the same job at a collegiate team. Coach Klein (Happy Days' The Fonz) discovers Bobby's freakishly good tackling abilities and gives him a position on the team.

Bobby keeps his footballing secret from his overbearing mother (Kathy Bates) and instead revels in the attention of mischievous Vicki (Balk). As absurd as the plot is, you can't help but feel sorry for Bobby and root for him (although the conclusion is predictable).

The Waterboy is effectively about a bullied kid getting his own back. It's every bullied persons' wish. Mustering up the courage is the hardest part, and this film makes it acceptable through the use of sport. This is not a film that will win awards, but what it will make you laugh.