Things are going great for the National Football League right now. They’ve only had to suspend about a quarter of their players this season and the number of quarterbacks who kill dogs for fun has dropped to almost zero. It’s a good time to branch out and get involved in other entertainment media. So the NFL has joined up with Andell Entertainment to produce a movie about iconic Green Bay Packers head coach Vince Lombardi.
Variety says that it hasn’t been determined if the NFL will co-finance the movie but their involvement will help in shooting at such locations as Lambeau Field, home of the Packers, provide historical footage if needed, and help market the picture to those most interested in it, football fans. Old football fans, really. Lombardi is an icon, but you don’t typically hear people (other than rabid Packers’ fans) under 40 who have much of an interest in him. The movie will be based on the book “Instant Replay” by former Packer Jerry Kramer and Dick Schaap.
Don’t look for the image conscious NFL to give a warts and all look at Lombardi. The focus will be on the famous “Ice Bowl” game between the Packers and the Dallas Cowboys in 1967. Obviously, Lombardi’s motivation and leadership skills will be pushed heavily. If this movie does well, look for more movies about other relevant NFL figures, like Red Grange and Johnny Unitas.
