Is American Underdog a True Story? Who Played Kurt Warner in the Movie?
by Mathelene
Updated Jun 26, 2023
Is American Underdog a True Story?
Yes, "American Underdog: The Kurt Warner Story" is a film based on the true story of Kurt Warner, the former St. Louis Rams quarterback, and his family. The movie delves into Kurt's upbringing in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, as one of three boys raised by a single mother. Despite not being drafted into the NFL after playing college football at the University of Northern Iowa, Kurt remained determined to pursue his dream.
He took on odd jobs, including working as a stock boy at a grocery store, while continuing to train and eventually playing as a quarterback for the Iowa Barnstormers in the Arena Football League. This caught the attention of the St. Louis Rams, leading to his successful NFL career, including appearances in three Super Bowls.
The directors of the film, John and Andrew Erwin, were inspired by Kurt Warner's wife, Brenda, and the dynamic of their relationship. Brenda, portrayed by Anna Paquin in the movie, played a significant role in Andrew Erwin's desire to tell Kurt's story. He observed their partnership on the sidelines, witnessing the interactions between Kurt and Brenda, and became intrigued by their story.
Kurt and Brenda Warner first met at a line dancing event. Brenda, a single mother of two at the time, initially had no interest in pursuing a romantic relationship. She was focused on her nursing studies, having been discharged from the Marine Corps, and was going through a challenging period in her life. However, Kurt eventually won her heart, and they got married in 1997. Kurt adopted Brenda's two children, Jessie Jo and Zachary, who had suffered a brain injury as an infant and was legally blind.
As a stepfather, Kurt Warner recognized the importance of being a positive influence. Having been raised by a single mother himself, he was conscious of representing a supportive and caring figure for his stepchildren. He understood the challenges faced by his own mother in relationships and believed that his upbringing influenced his commitment to being a loving stepfather. The film aims to portray the inspiring journey of Kurt Warner and his family, highlighting their resilience, love, and determination in the face of obstacles.
American Underdog Filming Locations
Principal photography for "American Underdog: The Kurt Warner Story" commenced on January 25, 2021, and wrapped up on March 6 of the same year. The filming took place in two locations: Atlanta and Oklahoma City. These cities served as the backdrop for capturing the scenes and bringing the story to life.
During the production, the movie was initially referred to by its full title. However, as the film's marketing campaign began, and the announcement of its Christmas release date was made, the title was eventually shortened to "American Underdog." This change was reflected in the film's promotional materials and marketing efforts, ensuring that audiences were aware of the new title ahead of its release.
Who Played Kurt Warner in American Underdog?
Zachary Levi played Kurt Warner in the movie. "American Underdog," the Kurt Warner biopic set to release on Christmas Day, portrays the remarkable journey of Warner, from a struggling small-town college football player to a grocery store employee, and eventually becoming a two-time NFL MVP, Super Bowl champion, and Hall of Fame quarterback.
The film stars Zachary Levi as Kurt Warner and Anna Paquin as his wife, Brenda. In a recent interview, Levi discussed his preparation for the role, which included learning how to throw a perfect spiral. He also mentioned his admiration for the show "Ted Lasso" and shared his favorite character, Ted, praising the character's optimism and transformative impact on others.
Levi clarified that it was actually the directors, Andrew and Jon Irwin, who approached him about the role, contrary to their claims that he pursued the role. Due to his prior commitments, Levi was initially unavailable for "American Underdog," but when the pandemic caused a delay in his projects, he became available, and the directors offered him the role after believing he would be a great fit.
The most challenging part of Levi's training for the role was learning the mechanics of quarterbacking and throwing a football accurately. As someone who didn't grow up playing football, it required a lot of effort and practice. Additionally, he experienced the physical toll of taking hits from real football players on set to capture realistic shots, wanting to fully embody the experience of being sacked.
Levi expressed his admiration for the character Ted Lasso in the popular show, appreciating his optimism and ability to positively impact those around him. He also highlighted the show's exploration of mental health and generational traumas, which resonated with his personal advocacy for mental health and healing from past traumas.
Overall, Levi embraced the opportunity to portray Kurt Warner in "American Underdog" and was inspired by the depth of the story, including the challenges and triumphs of Warner's relationships with his family and their collective journey.
American Underdog Plot
The film begins with a young Kurt Warner, inspired by Super Bowl XIX, making a lifelong commitment to become a Super Bowl-winning and MVP quarterback. Years later, Kurt finds himself playing his fifth year for the University of Northern Iowa Panthers football team under coach Terry Allen.
However, things don't go well for Warner, as he repeatedly fails to stay in the pocket during passing plays. Coach Allen threatens to bench him, which could end his NFL dreams. Kurt's situation improves after enduring a grueling practice session as instructed by the coach, and his performance improves to a level where he has a chance at being drafted.
In the midst of his football journey, Kurt becomes infatuated with a woman named Brenda, whom he sees dancing at a country bar. Determined to impress her, Kurt learns how to dance. He discovers that Brenda is a single mother of two children, struggling financially while studying nursing.
Despite Brenda's doubts, Kurt persists and walks three miles to her house to ask for her number. He learns that she was a Marine corporal and that her son is disabled. Kurt quickly forms a bond with Brenda's children, and they decide to give their relationship a chance.
After concluding his final season of college football, Kurt eagerly awaits the NFL Draft. Unfortunately, he goes undrafted and questions why he was given a dream he may never achieve. However, he receives an opportunity to try out for the Green Bay Packers. The tryout doesn't go well, leaving Kurt dejected.
He eventually becomes homeless but finds solace in moving in with Brenda and living in her parents' basement. Kurt takes a night-shift job at a Hy-Vee grocery store, stocking shelves. Through these experiences, he realizes that success is not solely found on the football field but in how one handles disappointments.
As Brenda's parents sell their house and relocate, Kurt and Brenda face challenging circumstances and continue to struggle. At one point, their car runs out of gas during a blizzard, leading Kurt to walk several miles to the nearest gas station. Jim Foster approaches Kurt, offering him the quarterback position for the Iowa Barnstormers in the Arena Football League. With no NFL prospects, Kurt accepts the offer.
Arena football proves to be different, with smaller fields and faster-paced games. Although Kurt loses his first game, he soon starts winning. The long commute strains Kurt and Brenda's relationship, resulting in a brief breakup. Tragedy strikes when Brenda's parents die in a tornado, leading Kurt and Brenda to reconcile and get married.
Kurt concludes the 1996 Arena Football League season with the Iowa Barnstormers in ArenaBowl X, experiencing a heartbreaking loss when his completed pass falls one yard short of the end zone on the last play of the game. Kurt's NFL dreams are reignited when he receives an invitation to try out for the St. Louis Rams.
Despite doubting his chances due to readjusting to regular football, Kurt faces relentless criticism from offensive coordinator Mike Martz. However, head coach Dick Vermeil believes in him and assures Kurt that he has made the team. When starting quarterback Trent Green gets injured in the 1999 NFL preseason, Kurt eventually becomes the starting quarterback.
In his first game, Kurt faces the formidable defense of the Baltimore Ravens, led by linebacker Ray Lewis. Despite an early turnover, Kurt excels against the Ravens' defense, leading the Rams to a 27-10 victory. Kurt expresses gratitude to God for the opportunity and shares a celebratory moment with Brenda in the stands.
The Rams achieve a remarkable 13-3 record that season, earning the nickname "The Greatest Show on Turf" due to their high-powered offense led by Warner. They go on to win Super Bowl XXXIV, with Kurt breaking Joe Montana's Super Bowl passing yards record
American Underdog Where to Watch?
At present, "American Underdog" is available for streaming on platforms such as Sony Liv and VI movies and TV. Additionally, you have the option to purchase the film on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and YouTube.
If you prefer, you can also rent the movie on Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, or Apple TV online. These various platforms provide convenient ways to access and enjoy the film according to your preferred method of viewing.
American Underdog Trailer
Is American Underdog a True Story? - FAQs
Yes, "American Underdog" is based on the true story of former NFL quarterback Kurt Warner and his journey from an undrafted player to becoming a Super Bowl champion.
Zachary Levi portrays Kurt Warner in the film "American Underdog."
Anna Paquin plays the role of Brenda, Kurt Warner's wife, in the movie.
"American Underdog" was filmed in Atlanta and Oklahoma City.
Yes, you can stream "American Underdog" on Sony Liv and VI movies and TV.