Rookie tackle focused on football, not movie about his life Aaron Wilson
BALTIMORE -- The grounded reality of blocking Indianapolis Colts speedy defensive end Robert Mathis on Sunday is the clear preference of Baltimore Ravens rookie offensive tackle Michael Oher rather than focusing on the Hollywood movie about his life.
APBaltimore Ravens rookie offensive tackle Michael Oher is the subject of the movie, "The Blind Side," which opened in theaters this weekend.
Football consumes him, not the blockbuster film, "The Blind Side," starring Sandra Bullock and Tim McGraw.
As the movie opened in theaters around the nation this weekend, Oher studied his playbook to prepare for Sunday's game against the undefeated Colts. He didn’t attend any premieres.
"I'm not curious, and I'm not in any hurry to see it," Oher said. "I will watch it eventually, I'm sure, but we have a football game to prepare for."
Oher is used to garnering attention beyond being an NFL player.
A homeless teenager growing up in Memphis, Tenn., whose mother was addicted to crack cocaine with a father he didn't know who was later murdered, Oher was adopted by Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy and embraced with love.
He emerged as a blue-chip recruit at Ole Miss and later as the Ravens' first-round draft pick.
"I am never ashamed of where I came from," Oher said. "Where I came from, a lot of people don't make it out. I think it has made me a tougher person, a better player."
"Michael doesn't think about what happened seven years ago," Sean Tuohy said during a conference call this week. "He doesn't think about what happened seven days ago. He doesn't have any rage about the past. That's why he's the person he is today."
It has been a seamless transition to the NFL with Oher starting every game and displaying a mean streak celebrated by his teammates and dreaded by defensive linemen.
Oher didn't participate in the movie project, and he hasn't been promoting it.
That job has been left to the movie studio’s publicity department, the actors and his parents.
"I think he’s proud of where he’s come from and what he’s been able to accomplish, the Tuohy's as his family and what they mean to him,” Ravens coach John Harbaugh said. “I also think, like all of us, he wants to move on and move forward with his life and what he’s going to accomplish going forward.
“That’s really the story to me, to us. It’s a great motivational story for anybody, but, at the same time, what is he going to do from here on out? That’s the thing we’re interested in, and that’s kind of where his thoughts are.”
Oher grew up with 13 siblings before spending time in various foster homes and schools, falling behind academically with a 0.6 grade point average.
The Tuohy’s took him in and helped him grow academically, spiritually and emotionally.
And his parents approve of the movie’s portrayal of their family.
"I've seen it five times and when I walked out of the movie every single time I had the feeling I had and hoped that people will leave and try to do something good for somebody," Leigh Anne Tuohy said. "We don't have any idea how many Michael Oher's are out there on the streets of America or the world that society basically deemed valueless. You can have a life-changing impact. We just hope that people try to do something to change a kid's life."
As a burgeoning high school football player at the prestigious Briarcrest Christian School, he caught the attention of author Michael Lewis, who wrote the best-selling book about Oher's life.
"I read it," Oher said. "Some things in the book, I didn't like. It happened, and there are things you have to live with. You just have to keep growing every day."
The movie also includes cameo appearances from several coaches who recruited Oher, including Nick Saban and Lou Holtz.
"That was spot on," Sean Tuohy said. "Michael didn't say three words when Saban was at our house. Now, Michael walks into a room and commands an audience with charisma and character. He's not even the same kid. He's not intimidated or shy anymore. It's a complete transformation."
With the Ravens, Oher has gained the respect of veteran players like six-time Pro Bowl center Matt Birk through his low-key approach, blue-collar work ethic and willingness to listen.
"I have great respect for Mike," Birk said. "I don't know his whole story, but I certainly know and respect him just the way he comes in here every day. A lot of times you see guys come in this league as if they're entitled and all that. Mike comes to work and is a gentleman. We have a lot of fun.
"He's just a joy to have around. He seems to be handling everything fine. He can be classified as a good rookie, a guy that works hard, keeps his mouth shut and is getting better. Obviously, he's contributing and is a big reason for some of the success that we've had."
Portrayed by actor Quinton Aaron, whose beefy, 6-foot-8, 372-pound frame has subjected Oher to a few jokes in the locker room, Oher's physique has come a long way.
He was an overweight 355 pounds in high school. Now, he's a fairly chiseled 6-foot-4, 310-pounder.
"Michael was monstrous," Sean Tuohy said. "It's a big difference. Confidence wise, he's off the charts now."
Oher doesn't think the movie will change his life, or his relentless attitude.
"I think I'll be the same," Oher said. "People don't recognize me now, and I don't think they will next month."
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it was a great movie and a little sad.
LOVED
LOVED the movie!!
The Tuohys are an incredible family. Michael is an incredible person. His attitude is amazing. He had such determination, gentleness, and intelligence that would never have been discovered without the Tuohys.
It was a wonderful and inspiring movie. Even if the movie was 50% accurate all I have to say is "WOW". Faith and family is so important and so overlooked these days. I 100% recommend this movie because it might change your life and force you to change another.
I just saw the movie and after reading this article, it sounds like the movie portrayed him pretty spot on! Not too much of a football fan here but I will be watching the game tomorrow to support Michael Oher! God bless him!!
My wife and I viewed the movie Blind Spot tonight. It is one of the most inspiring sports movies we have ever seen.
Congrats to Michael. The movie was very inspiring. I know that it will be a motivation for all of us to wake up tomorrow and fight our way to hapinness.
This kid is obviously barely on the OK side with this movie.
There's some stuff that bothers him in here,.... but he's handling it better than I would now at twice his years.
Gotta like him.
Went and watched the movie yesterday afternoon. I have read Michae Lewis' book and was familiar with the story. A touching movie, Sandra Bullock is excellent in the role of Mrs. Tohey.
I'm not a Ravens fan but I wish Michael Oher all the best.
For sure one of the movies of the year! Had to choose between New Moon and Blind Side and I am sure you can guess what I chose, even though there were hundreds of good looking women in the other line. I was moved by this movie
When I first saw the advertisements on the tv I told my wife we had to see this movie, and we did when it came out. It was INCREDIBLE. One of the best movies I have ever seen, and the best story I have ever heard of. This is a very good show to watch for EVERYONE and ANYONE. I applaud all the actors, and give a standing ovation to Michael Oher and the Tuohy family . It is incredible what they have all done, and have accomplished. I havent watched football for many years but I shall start watcing again just to watch this incredible man on the field. I am happy to see thing like this happen in the world that we live in today. Welcome Michael and and I will be watching for you on the field.
Saw the movie last night...great story and I admire the Tuohy's and what they helped this young man become. Michael also had a great impact on the family. Should make all of us think, "what is my purpose during my short time on this planet?".
Me and my cousins went to the movies to watch any movie so we picked the blind side .. and we didnt even know what the movies was about .. when we watched the movie i was really insipired and so was my cousins i recommend this movie a lot ... actually it was a kind of movie i didnt want to finish at all :)
Great movie and a "must see!" You cannot help but to be touched by this story! It is a good example of the human spirit's love and humility conquering victimness and pride. Michael is an amazing, humble guy who always thinks about being a better person despite a childhood none of us can comprehend. The Tuohy's love for Michael is inspiring, genuine and an ecouragement to do more for others. I think the scene where Mrs. Tuohy says that it was Michael who changed their lives for the better, captures the true meaning of this story. As you learn more about Michael, he doesn't seek credit or fame, he just wants to be a better person and example for others day at a time!
I took my kids to see The Blindside yesterday afternoon with some of their football buddys. Several times during the movie I looked over at my 14 year old son and saw tears running down his face. I know walking into the movie the kids were great kids but I can say for sure walking out we all felt so blessed and changed for the better. The Tuohy family show what love can do when given to those who need it the most. I wish Michael Oher all the best in life....God Bless him and The Tuohy Family!
i went to go see the movie last night i loved it was one of the best movies i have it is real and shows how great ur life can be compared to other who lived like michael and sometimes they never get out like he did he is really thankful and blessed to have the life has right now and the family is a great family
My husband and I went to see the movie yesterday 11/21/09 and LOVED it a remarkable story.
The Tuuhy family are incrfedible. Hats off to all Michael-Tuohy family- and the actors in the movie. Sandra GREAT job .
Went and watched the movie and enjoyed it very much. What character this young man has not to mention his talent. I did not know much about him but my son that is a Raiders Fan wanted the Raiders to draft him in round one. With all the sarrow in the World today it is nice to watch such a great story that ends on a very positive note.
Thanks to the Tuohy family and Michael Oher. I related to many things in the movie and have a deep resepct to the Tuohy family and especially Michael for overcoming and achieving, People don't understand what it;s like to overcome the inner city with nothing and make something of yourself. To Michael: I wish you the best that life has to offer and wish you continued success in whatever your future holds. To the Tuohy;s: Thank you for allowing me to share in your story. There are many successes out there and it's nice to finally see one, God Bless You!
I went to see the movie last night and I wasnt that convinced by the commercials that it was going to be an amazing one. My parents were, though, so i was dragged along. I got into the theater and my eyes were fixated on nothing but the movie the entire time. Usaually I make little comments throughout the film but this was too good. I didn't want to miss a moment. People were clapping and wincing at just the right times. I even started crying which, to any one that knows me, is most definnitely saying something. I don't even like watching football ! But there was something that made me just want to be silent the whole way through. And just to show you how much others liked it too, no one moved until the credits were over. not a soul stirred 'till the screen went dark. the second it was done everyone was up. this was a must-see and to Michael it will be like his instant replay.
I saw the movie Friday. AWESOME!!! Sandra Bullock is one of my favorite actresses and the promos's for "The Blind Side" drew me in. I was not disappointed. Down here in New Orleans, the Saints are top of my list, but it was split screen this Sunday with the Colts/Raven game. And even though the Ravens were playing against another New Orleanian, Peyton Manning, I had to pull for the Ravens......and yes, I was looking for Michael Oher.
I have to agree when I say that "The Blind Side" was one of the BEST movies I have seen in a long time. I walked out of that movie feeling grateful. Grateful for people like Leigh Anne Tuohy who are willing to help those around them. Who take what they are given and give back to others. I love Michael Oher as a person - for someone who can walk away and forgive the people in his life who weren't there when he needed them and to love the ones who were. Words cannot express how AMAZING these people are and how they have inspired me to want to help others because we truly can make a difference. Each one of us individually can do something to help someone else. The world would be a better place if we had more people like the Tuohy's.
Went to see "The Blind Side" over the weekend. When the first two theaters we went to were sold out, I knew it would be good. I had read the Reader's Digest story on him a few years ago and was looking forward to seeing the movie when I heard it was coming out. I'm a grown man and don't allow my emotions to show much, but I was moved to tears so many times in this movie. The tragedy of a young life gone so bad, the triumph over those circumstances, the great ending. A super movie. Go see it.
My wife and I saw the movie last Sunday. We both loved it. Sandra Bullock was awesome. The theatre was sold out so we sat in the third row. I laughed and cried through the entire movie. I probably annoyed everyone around me. There are not many movies that I care to go see anymore so I was delighted that they made a movie like this one.
Don't care much for the Ravens. But my wife and I ( I'm 57, she's 54, married 33 years, she's schoolteacher, I'm banker ) happily went through her tissue and my hanky. Very, very refreshing and encouraging.
I saw the movie last night.Wonderful movie. You lauhg. You cry. You cheer. It is real life.it is the Tuohy family-Sean, Leigh Anne,Micheal,Collins,SJ,their real life.
Thanks for sharing your life with us. Nature vs. nurture is a big debate.This movie proves that nurture is more than nature.
I saw the Blind Side today and absolutely loved it. I am a native of Memphis (South Memphis), and attended the University of Tennessee (sorry! - lol) The movie touched me in so many ways. I am very familiar with Hurt Village (my mother is from North Memphis) and also know all about Briarcrest High School. I think the love that the Tuouys showed to Michael was amazing, second only to God himself. My favorite line from the movie - "Who would have ever thought that we'd have a black son before we knew a Democrat" - is classic and demonstrates to us all that rich rewards await us if we would simply open our hearts to accept things as they are. If you're in a position to do so, make a difference in someone's life. If you feel as though life always serves you a bad hand, attack each day striving to make today better than yesterday. I loved that movie. Thank you for sharing your story with us all.
My husband and I saw Blind Side this evening and thoroughly enjoyed this film! It only shows that one person, one family CAN indeed make a difference and change the world. This inspirational
family story is the best movie I've seen this year as well as one of the best ever! God bless the Tuohy family and Micheal Oher certainly overcame incredibly obstacles possessing tremendous perseverance, courage and determination. Hollywood should be making more movies of this calibre instead of the mindless garbage it often turns out. I will recommend it all my family and friends!
The theater we attended sold out both the 6:00 & 7:30p.m. shows; the 8;40p. showing which we attended was also sold out and the theater seated 100 capacity; everyone stayed through all the credits (I've never seen that before) and cheered!
Wonderful, inspiring movie!
I've never watched the Ravens, but will now, just to see Michael.
G
I love Michael's story.It makes me want to help more and live more for others.He and his family are truly an inspiration.Thankyou for sharing your life and your story .I believe it's going to do alot of good for this world.And even though I never watch football I'm definetely going to follow Michael's career.
I pray to god that peopele will respect this man's privacy and learn from his character.
few words from mike means a lot. ii've seen it for 3 times, and it always made me cry. i have a 2y/o son and he likes "big mike". quinton's charisma gave justice to michael's story and all the cast as well. touhy's family did it out of God's righteousness with in them. i pray that people will not only take the story but the context of it.
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Nov 21, 2009
08:47 PM
We went to see The Blindside this afternoon. It is one of the best movies that I have ever seen. Michael Oher is a wonderful young man. I can't believe that children have to live like he did. My heart goes out to him. The Tuohey"s are a great family. I can't imagine doing what they did for this child that they didn't even know. I am thankful that his life turned out the way that it has. May God bless him and his family. I hope that there are more families like the Tuohey family that can take in homeless children. I am blessed with three strong and healthy children and as a single mother have been able to give them what they need and lots of love.