I wanted to like it, but... *POSSIBLE SPOILERS*

It was just too damn depressing overall, which is the absolute WRONG tone for a movie like this. I'm aware that it's based on a true story, but still...

Michael Rechtshaffen of the Hollywood Reporter said it best: "It's so busy wallowing in the agony of defeat that it never gets around to conveying that tangible thrill of victory."

75 percent of the movie is a downer, with only the last 25 percent being uplifting. Unfortunately, by then, it's too late. When Jim wins the race, it's similar to the feeling of finally getting past a long depression after someone dies. There's no joy, only slight relief. That's how Madison felt to me.

Jim Caviezel, as always, was solid (it's sickening that someone as talented as him went two years without getting any roles) and even Jake Lloyd was quite good as the precocious little boy. Mary McCormack and Bruce Dern also delivered their usual quality performances. Yet, despite the fine pedigree of acting here and the striking cinematography (especially with the boats and water), Madison didn't quite work for me because of the aforementioned tone issues.

It's a shame too, because I really wanted to like this a lot more than I did.

"Did you have a brain tumor for breakfast?" - Heathers