The Concussion movie, released in 2015, is a biographical sports drama film that tells the story of Dr. Bennet Omalu, a Nigerian-American neuropathologist who first discovered and published findings on chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in American football players. The film is based on the 2009 GQ article "Game Brain" by Jeanne Marie Laskas, which detailed Dr. Omalu's struggles against the National Football League (NFL) to acknowledge the link between football and brain damage.
Background and Production
The Concussion movie was directed by Peter Landesman and stars Will Smith as Dr. Bennet Omalu, alongside Alec Baldwin, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, and Albert Brooks. The film’s production was marked by controversy, with the NFL reportedly attempting to influence the film’s narrative and downplay the league’s role in covering up the risks of head injuries. Despite these challenges, the film’s cast and crew worked to ensure that the story was told accurately and with sensitivity to the real-life individuals affected by CTE.
CTE and the NFL
Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) is a type of brain damage that can occur in individuals who have experienced repeated blows to the head, such as football players. The condition can lead to symptoms including memory loss, depression, anxiety, and impulsivity, and has been linked to an increased risk of dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases. The NFL has faced criticism for its handling of head injuries and CTE, with many former players and their families alleging that the league knew about the risks of head injuries but failed to take adequate steps to protect players.
| Year | Number of Concussions in NFL |
|---|---|
| 2010 | 206 |
| 2011 | 224 |
| 2012 | 253 |
| 2013 | 229 |
| 2014 | 206 |
Impact and Legacy
The Concussion movie has had a significant impact on the national conversation about head injuries and CTE in sports. The film’s release coincided with a growing awareness of the risks of head injuries, and it helped to raise public awareness and spark debate about the need for greater protections for athletes. The film also highlighted the importance of independent research and the need for leagues and teams to prioritize player safety and well-being.
Real-Life Examples
The Concussion movie is based on the real-life story of Dr. Bennet Omalu and his discovery of CTE in American football players. The film also highlights the stories of several former NFL players who suffered from CTE, including Mike Webster, Junior Seau, and Dave Duerson. These individuals’ experiences illustrate the devastating consequences of repeated head injuries and the need for greater awareness and action to prevent CTE.
- Mike Webster, a former Pittsburgh Steelers player, was one of the first NFL players to be diagnosed with CTE. His brain was examined by Dr. Omalu, who found evidence of severe brain damage.
- Junior Seau, a former San Diego Chargers player, suffered from CTE and took his own life in 2012. His brain was later examined and found to have evidence of CTE.
- Dave Duerson, a former Chicago Bears player, also suffered from CTE and took his own life in 2011. His brain was later examined and found to have evidence of CTE.
What is CTE and how is it related to football?
+CTE, or chronic traumatic encephalopathy, is a type of brain damage that can occur in individuals who have experienced repeated blows to the head, such as football players. The condition can lead to symptoms including memory loss, depression, anxiety, and impulsivity, and has been linked to an increased risk of dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases.
What is the NFL's stance on CTE and head injuries?
+The NFL has faced criticism for its handling of head injuries and CTE, with many former players and their families alleging that the league knew about the risks of head injuries but failed to take adequate steps to protect players. In recent years, the league has taken steps to address the issue, including implementing rule changes and safety protocols to reduce the risk of head injuries.
The Concussion movie is a powerful and thought-provoking film that highlights the importance of acknowledging and addressing the risks of head injuries in sports. The film’s story is a testament to the courage and determination of Dr. Bennet Omalu and the many individuals who have worked to raise awareness about CTE and push for change in the NFL. As the film shows, speaking truth to power and advocating for change can be difficult, but it is essential for creating a safer and more just environment for athletes.
