Typically witnessing children using vulgar language doesn’t amuse me, not because I’m offended, but because it’s simply lazy. However, I must confess that “The Underdogs” managed to make me laugh. It wasn’t because of the profanity used by the kids or even by the star and producer, Snoop Dogg. Rather, it was because the film had more depth than just relying on shock value. Snoop may not be known for his acting skills he struggles to fully embody a character that closely resembles his real-life persona.
Nevertheless, he proves to be a capable performer, and his genuine passion for this underdog story shines through. During the end credits, we discover that Snoop has actually established a real-life football program for children. Additionally, the movie begins with a warning about strong language that may not be suitable for kids, but then humorously suggests that children who aren’t supposed to be watching this film curse more than the rest of us. These two contrasting elements frame the entire movie.
Snoop portrays Jaycen, also known as Two Js, a conceited and self-centered ex-football sensation who currently resides in his enormous mansion, indulging in marijuana and causing mischief. When a judge proposes that he fulfills his community service by coaching a children’s football team, he adamantly declines. Jaycen has no interest in associating with kids or anyone else for that matter. Consequently, he is assigned the task of cleaning up, equipped with an orange vest and a pole for collecting dog waste. Watch latest hollywood Films online only on Afdah without purchasing any plan.
And guess who happens to be present at that very spot? None other than a determined group of, let’s say it together, underdogs. And, what a coincidence, among those kids is Jaycen’s former high school girlfriend, Cherise. She offers Jaycen something that the judge failed to provide a motive to at least pretend to care about something other than himself. It’s still an act, of course, but we all know where this is headed, just like the characters do. They’ve all watched “The Mighty Ducks” and probably countless other films featuring resilient underdog sports teams with reluctant coaches who eventually realize they want to become the person the team needs them to be.
It’s not a classic by any means, nor would anyone consider it “good,” but it’s a simple and enjoyable watch that doesn’t get in its own way. Jaycen’s old friend, Kareem, played by Mike Epps, appears as a hustler and occasional carjacker who manages to become the assistant coach. The kids on the team are your typical Smurf-like characters, each with their own distinct trait – quiet, talkative, clumsy, and so on.
However, Snoop has great chemistry with the kids, and they prove to be tougher than him, which keeps things interesting. George Lopez makes an appearance as Jaycen’s high school coach, serving as a reminder of how much of an impact a caring adult can have on a child’s life.
The movie alternates between the underdog team formula of the kids and occasional meta-commentary on the genre’s classic tropes. However, it is evident that the film is thoroughly enjoying itself, making it impossible not to be captivated by it.
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