This film is the true story of the work of a Nigerian pathologist in America, Benet Omalu, who becomes aware of the impact of repeated head blows on (American) Football players in causing Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy. As a condition that doesn't show up on a CT scan, his evidence is collected from autopsies on the brains of players who have died prematurely, many from suicides. The first case that alerts his attention to the situation, is that of "Iron" Mike Webster, Hall of Fame hero of the Pittsburgh Steelers. The deterioration in the physical and mental health of prominent former athletes causes him to investigate the extent of the forces involved, and their potential impact.
He concludes that human concussion can occur from blows of a force of 60g and that Football delivers blows of up to 100g. In a game where the "head is a weapon", players can be subject to "an unremitting barrage of concussive blows", leading to a "cascading series of neurological events". His conclusion is that, "playing Football killed Mike Webster"
Much of the plot is consumed by attempts by the NFL to discredit and refute Dr Omalu's findings. Football loving America has hidden and ignored evidence in the interests of the game's appeal, and reputation. As an official confesses, "If only 10% of mothers in America decided that Football is too dangerous - we are finished".
Inevitably the drama unfolds and the truth is exposed. The final credits confirm that 5000 players subsequently took out cases against the NFL for injuries received playing the game and suggests that 28% of players risked cognitive impairment (some leading to CTE) from their involvement in the sport.
This is not a film that makes comfortable watching for enthusiasts of games where blows to the head are possible, likely or inevitable. It clearly articulates the dangers, but stops short of suggesting abolition. In a climate of increased awareness of potential concussive injury from head blows, it is informative and cautionary rather than simply sensationalist. The laws of American Football have been subsequently modified to reduce the head to head contact which is featured prominently in the real Football footage incorporated within the film.
The story highlights the need for scientific analysis of the potential dangers of collision sports, leading to open dialogue and willingness to amend attitudes and rules to reflect the primacy of player welfare. Ultimately, it may contribute to improved awareness and safety: if so, its sad story may have a positive impact.
