Michael Oher may not be a well known name around the Hollywood movie types but as of this weekend, his story will be told.  “The Blind Side” to be released this Friday is based on the book authored by Michael Lewis titled “Moneyball” and describes the struggles of a homeless teenager who is transformed by being taking in by a nurturing Memphis family, played by Sandra Bullock and Tim McGraw.

Despite his lack of education and football knowledge, Oher was blessed with the makeup of a offensive lineman with his large frame and strength.  Finding a actor to play the role of  Michael Oher was not an easy match.  After a searching nationwide for an actor with similar stature, writer-director John Lee Hancock chose 6′7″ 360-pound Quinton Aaron, who didn’t have a lot of acting experience but did have the soft teddy bear quality.  Unfortunately Aaron was able to sympathize with Oher because Aaron never met his father and lost his mother prior to being cast for the part.  Although Oher is the largest physical character in the movie, Bullock plays the biggest role as the voice of reasoning and direction in the movie.

Leigh Ann Tuohy played by Bullock is a tough nosed mother not letting anything stop her and who takes Oher under her wing and treats him as her own son.  Bullock wasn’t sold on the character until she was able to meet the real Mrs. Tuohy.  A daughter of a U.S. Marshal, Tuohy’s persona is strictly straight forward, leaving nothing to the imagination.  This attitude is evident through Bullock’s portrayal, letting the audience know she is in control in any situation.

Oher, now a rookie offensive tackle for the Baltimore Ravens got his taste of the spotlight on Monday Night Football last night blanking the Cleveland Browns 16-0.  When asked what people can take away from the story Oher replied, “The thing that people can take from this … reach out and lend a hand. I know so many people that have more talent than I have, that … didn’t get that opportunity that I got.”

If you are still not sold on this family flick mixed with a sports theme, check out Sandra kicking it with the Today crew.

Matt Suttner and Eleventh Hour are sold on “The Blind Side.”