Up 'n' Under

Watch Up 'n' Under

"Six Men. One Woman. No Balls."
  • 1998
  • 1 hr 39 min
  • 5.6  (959)

Up 'n' Under is a touching and humorous sports movie from 1998. It is based on a successful stage play of the same name, and it tells the story of a ragtag amateur rugby team from a northern English town, who decide to take on the unbeatable champions from an upscale neighboring club. The team, called the Wheatsheaf Arms, is led by a likable rogue called Jack, played by Gary Olsen. Jack is a former rugby star himself, but now spends his time drinking and chasing women. When he makes a bet with his arch-nemesis, Phil, that he can train a team to beat Phil's famous Cobblers - while being drunk and disorderly the whole time - he sets in motion a comical and inspiring underdog story.

The movie introduces a colorful cast of characters, including Steve, a milkman with a talent for jumping high, played by Richard Ridings; Reg, a flabby barfly with a heart of gold, played by Neil Morrissey; and Hazel, Jack's estranged daughter who becomes the team's manager, played by Samantha Womack. Together, they form the Wheatsheaf Arms' team, which is made up of misfits ranging from overweight cooks to skinny nerds.

The movie is full of hilarious moments, as the team's unorthodox training methods and Jack's drunken tactics lead to all sorts of hijinks. For example, Jack teaches his players to tackle by throwing pies at them, and he trains them to jump by having them leap over dumpsters. There are also touching scenes, as the characters reveal their backstories and their motivations for playing rugby. For Steve, it is about proving himself to his high-class girlfriend's father. For Reg, it is about getting a chance to play with his idol, Jack. And for Hazel, it is about getting closer to her father and proving that women can be great rugby coaches.

As the team gets closer to the big game, they face numerous obstacles, including disapproving wives, rivalries within the team, and the machinations of Phil, who will stop at nothing to maintain his Cobblers' supremacy. However, they also gain unexpected allies, such as Sarah, a Cobblers' player who wants to date Steve, and Jules, a fitness fanatic who volunteers to help the team get in shape.

The climax of the movie is the big game, which takes place in front of a packed stadium of both supporters and detractors. The Wheatsheaf Arms' players are nervous but determined, and their opponents are confident but underestimating them. The game is both thrilling and hilarious, as the players use tricks and secret moves to outsmart each other. The final score is not as important as the lessons that the players learn about teamwork, friendship, and perseverance.

Overall, Up 'n' Under is a delightful and heartwarming movie that combines sports, comedy, and drama in a unique and memorable way. Its characters are relatable and lovable, its humor is clever and irreverent, and its message is inspiring and uplifting. Whether you are a rugby fan or not, you will enjoy watching the Wheatsheaf Arms' journey from underdogs to winners.

Up 'n' Under
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Description
  • Release Date
    1998
  • Runtime
    1 hr 39 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    5.6  (959)