Film fans have been discovering one of Gene Hackman’s most well-reviewed movies, which can be streamed at home by Amazon Prime customers. The beloved actor, who was found dead in his home along with his wife Betsy on February 26, starred in a slew of films throughout his decades-long career. He enjoyed huge success and even nabbed two Oscars and two BAFTAs during his time on the big screen. Despite retiring 20 years ago, his films are still watched by many around the world, especially since his death.
One of those movies, which has become available on Amazon Prime Video, is Hoosiers. Released in 1986, the film follows “a coach with a checkered past and a local drunk train a small-town high school basketball team to become a top contender for the state championship in 1950s Indiana,” as per the official synopsis. It sits among Gene Hackman’s most memorable movies and has an impressive score of 91% on film review site Rotten Tomatoes.
As well as Hackman, Hoosiers also stars Barbara Hershey, Dennis Hopper and Sheb Wooley. People have been enjoying the movie and sharing their reviews since the news of Gene Hackman’s death.
One Rotten Tomatoes reviewer wrote: “I believe Hoosiers is a remarkable film. It boasts a compelling storyline, skillfully directed, with a well-paced narrative that takes viewers through a rollercoaster of emotions, culminating in a thrilling championship showdown that keeps the audience engaged throughout. I genuinely think everyone should take the time to watch this film, as it has proven to be timeless and remains an excellent piece of cinema.”
Another said: “I just watched this movie last night, and it is easily one of if not the best sports movies I’ve ever seen. The characters and actors did a great job, and I watched this in memory of the actor of Coach Norm.”
A third wrote: “One of my top 3 sports movies of all time. Wonderful cast and great period flavor. RIP, Gene Hackman.”
While the film proves to be a timeless hit with many, Gene Hackman himself reportedly was not a huge fan. It has been widely reported that around the time of Hoosier’s production and release, Hackman told co-star Hopper: “I hope you’ve invested well because you and I are never gonna work after this movie. This is a career-ending film for both of us.”
In an interview with Vulture, the film’s director David Anspaugh claimed that Hackman had him “on the verge of a nervous breakdown” as the actor was difficult to work with on set.