The biographical sports drama Brian Banks has landed triumphantly on Netflix UK’s top ten list, securing the ninth spot amid a roster of diverse films like Despicable Me 3, The Devil Wears Prada, and King Richard.
The film stars Aldis Hodge, Greg Kinnear, and even Morgan Freeman in an uncredited role. Despite reviews critiquing the formulaic approach to the story, Hodge received praise for his performance.
Directed by Tom Shadyac, known for his work on comedy hits like Ace Ventura: Pet Detective and Bruce Almighty, and written by Doug Atchison, Brian Banks has Aldis Hodge in the titular role as the film chronicles the real-life story of Brian Banks, an aspiring high school football player whose dreams of a professional career were shattered when he was wrongfully convicted of a crime he didn’t commit.
As Netflix viewers across the UK are captivated by Banks’ journey of redemption, here’s the true story that inspired this biographical drama.
What is the true story behind Brian Banks?
Brian Banks’ ordeal began in 2002 when, at the age of 16, he was accused of kidnapping and raping a classmate, Wanetta Gibson. Despite maintaining his innocence, Banks faced immense pressure to accept a plea deal that would have spared him a lengthy prison sentence but would brand him a sex offender for life.
Faced with the prospect of spending years behind bars, Banks agreed to the deal, ultimately serving five years in prison and five years on parole. However, with the support of his family and the California Innocence Project, Banks fought to overturn his conviction.
In 2012, his accuser recanted her testimony, admitting that she had fabricated the entire story. With this newfound evidence, Banks’ conviction was overturned, and he was exonerated of all charges.
Did Brian Banks ever play for the NFL?
Brian Banks did have the opportunity to pursue his dream of playing in the NFL after his acquittal. Following his release from prison and the overturning of his conviction, Banks was determined to make up for lost time and pursue his passion for football once again.
Despite having spent years away from the game and facing significant challenges in terms of physical conditioning and skill development, in 2012, Banks was invited to participate in training camp with the Seattle Seahawks and later had tryouts with the San Diego Chargers, Kansas City Chiefs, and San Francisco 49ers. However, Banks ultimately did not secure a spot on an NFL roster.
You can watch Brian Banks on Netflix and catch the trailer here:
