'The Mighty Oaks' Review: A Heartfelt Documentary About the Strength of Community Spirit
- romeynorton3
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
By Romey Norton - December 9, 2025
In The Mighty Oaks, director Brendan Harty turns what could have been a conventional sports documentary into something warmer, more reflective, and surprisingly fun. Set in Morgan Hill, California, the film follows the rise of a high school lacrosse program built quite literally from backyard dreams. And Harty approaches it with a steady, inquisitive gaze that asks: What does it mean for kids to grow up inside a story larger than themselves?
The film traces The Mighty Oaks program from its scrappy 2015 origins to the high-stakes 2024 season, in which the boys’ team, playing under the shadow of departures, injuries, and personal loss, pursues one last championship.
It’s a story many communities will resonate with, and there are honest, heartwarming stories that really make you root for these players and this team. For example, one player confronts the complexities of his adoption, another carries the memory of his late brother onto the field with a mix of ache and determination. Others share their passion for playing and what it means for them to be part of this team. Not that all documentaries focus on the monetary value when it comes to sports, but it is always a key element of why people want to play. In The Might Oaks, however, it's about being part of the community and giving back to that community, which is very special.
The Mighty Oaks program isn’t portrayed as a flawless triumph, but rather as a flawed, ambitious, and deeply human endeavour. The interviews with coaches, founders, and several team members' family members feel unforced and sincere. The behind-the-scenes footage grounds the film in the messy reality of adolescence and community-building.
Like many sports-themed documentaries, there’s tragedy, triumph, and inspirational take-away quotes, all of which show the power of persistence and determination. What I enjoyed about this documentary was the sport. Lacrosse isn’t a sport I’m familiar with, and it was entertaining to watch them play and learn more about the game.
The Mighty Oaks stands out not because it redefines the sports documentary, but because it treats its players as more than athletes. The filmmakers seem most interested in the subtler victories: the growth that occurs off the field, the willingness to show vulnerability, and the village it takes to raise a team.
If there are flaws, it’s slightly repetitive, with a lot of the same footage, where you feel like you’re analyzing gameplay. The voiceover felt slightly cheesy; the script, voice, and style made the documentary feel childish at times. The voiceover felt it suited reality TV and game shows. I’d rather have had a coach talk us through the gameplay and narrate more.
Ultimately, the documentary serves as both a tribute and a time capsule. It celebrates teamwork and highlights the kind of community-driven triumph that rarely makes national headlines. It’s a film that leaves you less concerned about the final score and more appreciative of the people who showed up, season after season, to build something together.
Lightly flawed but genuinely heartfelt, The Mighty Oaks is a reminder that the strongest sports stories are never just about sports; they’re about the roots that hold a community upright.
The Mighty Oaks is set to premiere on Amazon Prime and Apple TV on December 9, 2025.
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