"Sometimes the soul needs the warming elixir that can only be found in tales of bringing interracial harmony and victory to early 1970's high school football, Mark Walhlberg being Mark Wahlberg but this time as a barman playing the NFL, or some plucky college and semi-pro hockey players defeating all of communism. Other inspirational narratives are also available. How Wales would welcome some Disneyfication of their experience today. Trouble is these films are not documentaries, instead much of the content is inspired" by real events;"
"Judging by the terrible ticket sales for this afternoon in Cardiff, fewer and fewer Wales fans can find that glimmer amidst the asphyxiating smoke of despair coming from the blaze started by their own governing body's arson. Conversely, France arrive on the back of their most promising performance in nearly a year, with riches of squad and vibe burnished by England's form yesterday opening the Grand Slam door."
Disney sports films provide comforting underdog narratives that blend inspiration and fiction, often taking only small liberties with real events. These films offer a reassuring 'you-never-know' glimmer despite frequently predictable, low-quality elements. Many fans turn to such narratives for emotional balm during disappointing sporting realities. Welsh rugby supporters increasingly lack that glimmer as poor ticket sales in Cardiff reflect mounting despair. The despair is described metaphorically as smoke from a blaze started by the governing body's failures. France travel in strong form and confidence after a promising performance, posing a sharp competitive contrast to a demoralized Wales.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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