Will Smith's new movie "Concussion" released its trailer yesterday and has garnered significant attention from fans and press alike.
Smith stars as Bennet Omalu, a real forensic pathologist from Pittsburgh that discovered a neurodegenerative disease called Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy or CTE. The said disease is prevalent among football players and is seemingly caused by repeated brain trauma that the player receives over time.
Long term effects of CTE includes depression, dementia and a myriad of behavioral changes. It is a disease that allegedly plagues the National Football League, Vox has reported.
"You're going to war with a corporation that owns a day of the week!" said character Cyril Wecht who is played by Albert Brooks. The said quote refers to the seemingly "Man vs. Big Shadowy Corporation" plot of the film.
As reported by Wired, "Concussion" is partly based on a 2009 essay of Malcolm Gladwell published in The New Yorker. The essay revolves around the head injuries players experience in American football.
Among the supporters of the published essay was the neuropathologist Omalu, who diagnosed the first case of CTE in a former NFL player.
Smith, usually known for his action and comedic movies, has recently been getting serious and darker roles, presumed to be an attempt to get an Oscar nod.
"Concussion," albeit heavily dramatized, essentially portrays factual findings of Dr. Omalu. Presented as a sports drama film, expect dim hallways and threatening businessmen that complement the movie's dark tone.
For years, there have been reports that the NFL has been covering up this findings. Reports have said that there are now 30 former NFL players who have committed suicide, according to The Daily Beast.
The NFL allegedly has been hushing its involvement by giving incentives on skull-targeted hits while being aware of their deadly impact.
"Concussion" is scheduled for a release on Dec. 25, 2015 as told by Columbia Pictures
