Hollywood and Officiating

[PSU213]

Originally posted by grantsrc
I just saw "The Longest Yard" and I always walk away from sports movies with the same feelings- "Why does Hollywood always give officials a bad name?"

Overall I liked the movie but many times I found myself saying, "That wouldn't happen!" or "What were they thinking?" or "He was out of position!" and my personal favorite, "Who in their right mind wears an adjustable hat?!?"

What's your take? Are there any sports movies that portray officials accurately/positively?

I did not see the movie (any good?), but I have noticed this in other movies.

Usually the antagonists do something blatently (sp?) illegal over and over and the officials seem not to see it. Yes, I know it makes for better "drama" (although I can't imagine "The Longest Yard" is really going for drama), but that certainly doesn't cause officials to be portrayed in the most positive light.

I remember in the movie "Mighty Ducks" (yes, I know not a very serious sports movie), the players were wearing NHL style helmets (no face masks, just a rather flimsy "hat" part), while the masks, and quite a bit of other protective gear (now get out of the gutters, I mean neck guards for instance) are required at all youth levels. Also, the officials did not wear helmets, something that is, besides being very stupid, is not allowed (helmets are required for officials) in USA Hockey.