George Clooney is making waves yet again with his latest project, “The Boys in the Boat.” Following his direction of the critically acclaimed “The Tender Bar,” Clooney dives headfirst into the director’s chair, bringing to life a script written by Mark L. Smith. The screenplay, adapted from Daniel James Brown’s nonfiction book, tells the remarkable true story of the 1936 University of Washington men’s crew team.
‘The Boys in the Boat’: An Inspiring Tale of Triumph
The official synopsis of “The Boys in the Boat” reads: “Based on the bestselling non-fiction novel about the 1936 University of Washington rowing team that competed for gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympic games, this true story follows a group of underdogs at the height of the Great Depression as they’re thrust into the spotlight and take on elite international rivals.”
This inspiring narrative revolves around a group of underdogs facing the challenges of the Great Depression. They find themselves catapulted into the limelight as they take on international rivals and strive for Olympic gold.

‘The Boys in the Boat’ Stellar Cast
George Clooney has assembled a stellar cast to bring this historical drama to life. The ensemble includes renowned actors such as:
- Joel Edgerton (“The Great Gatsby,” “Loving”)
- Callum Turner (“Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald,” “The Capture”)
- Jack Mulhern (“The Society,” “Mare of Easttown”)
- Sam Strike (“Leatherface,” “Nightflyers”)
- Luke Slattery (“The Goldfinch,” “The Babysitter”)
- Thomas Elms (“Workin’ Moms,” “Pooka!”)
- Tom Varey (“Ackley Bridge,” “No Offence”)
- Bruce Herbelin-Earle (“Sex Education,” “Get Even”)
- Wil Coban (“The Plot Against America,” “The Stranger”)
- James Wolk (“Watchmen,” “Zoo”)
- Hadley Robinson (“Moxie,” “I’m Thinking of Ending Things”)
- Courtney Henggeler (“Cobra Kai,” “Mom”)
From Humble Beginnings to International Glory
The triumphant true story unfolds with the 1936 University of Washington men’s rowing team, who defied the odds by competing for gold at the Berlin Olympic games. This group of underdogs, struggling in the midst of the Great Depression, was suddenly thrust into the international spotlight as they took on elite competitors. Their journey ultimately culminated in a historic gold medal win that left the world in awe.
The Inspiration Behind ‘The Boys in the Boat’
George Clooney, both the director and a producer of “The Boys in the Boat,” speaks passionately about the narrative. He reflects on how the team progressed from “taking on the seniors, the fraternity kids, and then taking on the Nazis” at the Olympics.
Rowing, particularly in the 1920s, held a significant place in American sports, drawing massive audiences. Clooney sees this historic story as a powerful embodiment of the message that “you can pull yourself up from nothing and succeed.”

What’s on the Horizon?
In addition to “The Boys in the Boat,” there’s more in store for George Clooney’s fans. A TV adaptation of Clooney’s Good Night, and Good Luck is currently in the works at AMC, slated for 2022. The show will be led by Jonathan Glatzer, an Emmy-winning writer known for “Succession” and “Better Call Saul.” Meanwhile, Grant Heslov, who co-wrote the original film’s screenplay, is set to direct the first episode.
‘The Boys in the Boat’ Save the Date
“The Boys in the Boat” promises to be an engaging historical drama, and the wait is almost over. The film is set to premiere on December 25 in theaters. To catch a glimpse of what’s in store, be sure to check out the trailer below.
George Clooney’s “The Boys in the Boat” is a cinematic journey into the inspirational true story of underdogs who defied the odds during the Great Depression and achieved international glory. With a remarkable cast and Clooney’s directorial prowess, this film promises to be a must-see for movie enthusiasts.