A staple of cinema is the inspiring sports biopic. We love sports because they bring us together, they bring out the best in us, and they inspire us to push further. This Christmas we get just such a story in The Boys in the Boat.

The film is based on the University of Washington eight-man rowing team that made it all the way to the Olympics in 1936. The film is based on the book from Daniel James Brown, adapted by Mark L. Smith and brought to the screen by director George Clooney.

In the midst of the depression, food, jobs, and money are hard to find. For students at Washington, the prospect of earning a slot on the rowing team means security, lodging, and a job. It’s that promise that first attracts Joe Rantz (Callum Turner), one of many trying out for the team. He makes it onto the junior boat and quickly finds a passion and talent for the sport.

He and his boatmates quickly rise, too. Starting as novice competitors, they quickly begin winning. They also catch the attention of Coach Al Ulbrickson (Joel Edgerton). Despite their youth and inexperience, Ulbrickson sees their potential.

Eventually, the coach bets on the team, taking them as his choice to compete for an Olympic slot. Can the boys thrive despite a lack of experience and resources?

This is based on a true story, so it’s easy to see how the story is going to end before jumping in. It’s also not hard with sports biopics to know where we’re going. But the point of a film like this isn’t the destination, it’s the journey. And the journey in this film is sufficiently engaging and inspiring.

Clooney crafts a great period look and feel. The rowing scenes are engaging and exciting. There is enough character depth and story built here to pull you in, too. And that makes the hurdles and action in the third act that much more satisfying.

The Boys in the Boat isn’t a complex or deep film. It’s a straightforward sports biopic with an inspiring story that’s well put together. For those looking for a more uplifting family experience at the movies this Christmas, this film will hit the spot.

The Boys in the Boat opens in theaters nationwide on Christmas Day.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.