"Most Valuable Players" is a really fun and entertaining documentary that doesn't feel all that much like a documentary. It feels much more like a fiction film. While most documentaries today are filled with tragedy and war and sadness, MVP offers the opposite. It's filled with music, energy, hope, inspiration and happiness.
Yes, documentaries about Iraq remain vital and important but MVP reminds us of the American way of life and value system that our soldiers in Iraq fight to preserve.
The story involves three Pennsylvania high schools that prepare for the Freddy Awards, the local high school version of Broadway's Tony Awards. The film talks about the importance of sports and the Freddy Awards feels like a sporting event itself. Sure enough, I found myself rooting for my favorites in the end. I'm not a fan of musicals, and the film holds off most of the numbers until the big show in the end. By this point, I was ready to watch the kids perform and forgot about my musical theater prejudices. I think everyone can relate to kids wanting recognition and trying to succeed. Even though not everyone wins, you feel like they're all winners.
It's all good-natured fun with some really good performances by the talented students. But when something unexpected happens, a sobering reality enters the picture. Thankfully, the film's director balances the tone perfectly.
Standout moments include the kids learning which students & schools have been nominated, and the Freddy Awards themselves. And every moment spent with the gossipy Katie and Ali is a good one.
It's true that some like their documentaries served up much darker and heavier and might not take to the joyful tone here, but MVP offers up a slice of American life and is an emotionally uplifting film that has you tearing up and laughing out loud almost at the same time.
MVP is a wonderful gem and well worth seeking out.
