This Sporting Life

Frank Machin, protagonist of "This Sporting Life," approaches life as he approaches his rugby matches--brutally and without understanding. While exploring this not-too-subtle theme, the film presents several subtle and dramatic characters.

In the movie's most effective episodes, two people struggle to communicate. In one scene, a pathetic rugby scout clings to Machin; as he rises, Machin progressively rejects the puzzled old man. Also, Machin and his landlady, Mrs. Hammond, destroy each other. Neither can understand other people--but he approaches them aggressively while she withdraws from them completely. Their affair reflects this difference: he is brutal when they first make love, and she must be forced into this act as into all contacts. Their problems seem especially acute compared with another rugby player's happy romance; in fact, Machin and Mrs. Hammond fight brutally and bitterly at that player's wedding.

Excellent photography accentuates the subtle characterizations. Dramatic, almost surrealistic rugby shots emphasize the players' brutality. Even shots of background scenery contribute to the characterization. When withdrawn and upset, Mrs. Hammond appears in front of a blurred, ruined abbey; when relaxed, she stands in the midst of an idyllic country scene.

Without exception, the actors are equal to their complex parts. Richard Harris vividly portrays Machin's brutality; he also emphasizes Machin's attempt at kindness and his wry humor ("Let me call you sweetheart," he implores Mrs. Hammond as she rants at him.) Rachel Roberts' expressive, bony face clearly reveals Mrs. Hammond's changes of mood.

Though this characterization succeeds, Lindsay Anderson's directing fails in other areas. He considers his viewer a rugby opponent who must be hit over the head to make a point. As Mrs. Hammond dies, Machin tries to crush a spider. A dramatic drumbeat heralds every dramatic moment. And Anderson overemphasizes obvious lines like Machin's "You see something and you go out and get it."