Blood Equity

Watch Blood Equity

  • PG-13
  • 2009
  • 1 hr 3 min
  • 7.4  (21)

Blood Equity is a documentary film that delves into the issue of head injuries and concussions in professional football, and the negligence of the National Football League (NFL) towards its players. The movie features former NFL players such as Mike Ditka, Harry Carson, Willie Wood, and Tony Dorsett, who share their experiences and struggle with the after-effects of concussions during their football careers.

The movie begins by explaining the popularity of football in America and the rise of the NFL as a billion-dollar industry. It then introduces the viewer to the harsh realities of the sport, including the high risk of concussions and the physical and mental damages sustained by players over time. Football has been glorified over the years as a rough and tough sport, with players heroically battling their way through injuries to emerge victorious on the field. However, the movie explores how this aggression on the field can have long-lasting consequences on the players' health and well-being.

Blood Equity highlights the story of former NFL player Gene Merlino, who died at the age of 44 due to a rare brain disease called chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). CTE is a progressive degenerative disease that affects individuals who have suffered multiple head injuries, and it is commonly found in football players. The documentary argues that the NFL has failed to address the issue of CTE and concussions in a meaningful way, putting the health and lives of its players at risk.

The film presents compelling interviews with several former NFL players who have suffered from the after-effects of concussions. Mike Ditka, a former coach and player, reveals that he has suffered memory loss, and Harry Carson, a former player, expresses his frustration with the lack of support from the NFL. Willie Wood, a former player who was diagnosed with dementia, speaks about his struggles, and Tony Dorsett, a former running back, describes his fear of developing CTE.

The movie also explores the role of the NFL in downplaying the risks associated with concussions, as it had a commercial incentive to keep the sport popular and profitable. The documentary provides evidence of how the NFL knew about the dangers of concussions for decades but failed to take action to protect its players. Blood Equity highlights the lack of empathy and concern from the NFL towards its players and argues that the league must take responsibility for the health and well-being of its players.

Blood Equity does an excellent job of presenting the complex issue of concussions and CTE in a clear and concise manner, drawing attention to the negligence of the NFL towards its players. The documentary is very emotional, and the interviews with the former NFL players are poignant and compelling. The film effectively highlights the toll that concussions and head injuries can take on the players' lives, and the need for the NFL to address this issue seriously.

In conclusion, Blood Equity is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary that sheds light on the issue of concussions and CTE in professional football. The movie highlights the stories of former NFL players, who have suffered from the after-effects of concussions, and the negligence of the NFL towards its players. The film is a must-watch for anyone interested in the sport, and it serves as a wake-up call for the NFL to take meaningful action to protect its players.

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Description
  • Release Date
    2009
  • MPAA Rating
    PG-13
  • Runtime
    1 hr 3 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    7.4  (21)