Interview by Paul Salfen
In a lively chat with AMFM Magazine, Mary Stuart Masterson and Rob Corddry, who star as Eileen Flynt and Coach Sam Weston in the 2023 sports drama The Senior, share their experiences bringing Mike Flynt’s remarkable true story to life. Directed by Rod Lurie and now playing in theaters, The Senior follows Flynt, a 59-year-old college dropout who returned to Sul Ross State University to finish his degree and play college football again, redeeming his past in an inspiring tale of grit and second chances. With a positive message landing at just the right time, Masterson and Corddry reveal how the film’s authenticity, camaraderie, and themes of perseverance resonated both on and off the set.
A Story Too True to Believe
The Senior captures the improbable journey of Mike Flynt, and its authenticity stunned both actors. “I keep learning how true it is,” Corddry says, noting that the film stays faithful “right down to the dialog, to the moments.” Masterson, who plays Eileen, Mike’s steadfast wife, adds that having Mike and Eileen Flynt on set with headsets provided instant validation: “It was accurate… They’re amazing people.” This commitment to truth, honed over the film’s 18-year development, elevates The Senior above typical “based on a true story” fare. “It’s truer than most true stories,” Corddry emphasizes, a sentiment echoed by the meticulous work of Lurie and the filmmakers.
The film’s uplifting narrative—centered on never giving up—feels especially timely. “It’s almost perfect timing for it,” the interviewer notes, and Masterson agrees, highlighting how the story brings people together to “watch a team come together play.” In a world craving positivity, The Senior delivers a heartfelt reminder of resilience and community, perfect for families and sports fans alike.
Perseverance in Life and Art
The theme of “stick-to-itiveness” runs deep in The Senior, and both actors connect it to their own lives. Masterson humorously cites childbirth as her ultimate test of endurance: “Very hard, very rewarding.” Corddry, reflecting on his youth, recalls nearly abandoning his Eagle Scout journey when distracted by high school life. “Thank God I didn’t,” he says, crediting his parents’ encouragement and his prior efforts for pushing him to complete it. “People salute me on the street,” he jokes, underscoring the value of perseverance.
For Masterson, a career in the arts demands similar fortitude. “You need to have that, and not take it personally,” she says, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the work’s impact rather than external validation. Corddry shares a personal takeaway, revealing how he brought his father’s ashes to Texas, where the film was shot, as a private tribute. “I went back down to where he’s from… Galveston Bay,” he shares, a poignant moment that deepened his connection to the project.
Behind the Scenes: Fun and Football
The set of The Senior was a blend of hard work and camaraderie. Masterson and Corddry share a memorable scene together, which Masterson calls “so much fun” and an “honor.” Corddry, known for his comedic roles, relished playing the serious Coach Weston and mentoring younger actors, many of whom were new to the industry. “They were always like, ‘Rob, do you have any advice?’” he recalls, playfully advising them to “hang up your wardrobe.” The young cast, including Corey and Terrell, left a lasting impression: “They were great kids,” Masterson adds.
Filming the football scenes was a highlight, offering a glimpse into the technical magic of moviemaking. Masterson, a filmmaker herself, was fascinated by the process: “Watching how the football scenes were filmed… how to get crowd reaction, that was really cool.” Corddry describes the challenge of directing extras in the bleachers to react to an imaginary game, guided by a bullhorn and a “little dark dot” marking the action. “It’s like working with a green screen,” Masterson notes, marveling at the precision required.
A Film Worth Cheering For
For both actors, The Senior was more than just a job—it was a chance to tell a rewarding story with good people. Masterson reflects on overcoming personal hurdles during filming, keeping her insights close: “I’m a little superstitious… but it’s an internal thing that gets in my way sometimes.” Corddry sees the film’s long journey to the screen as an allegory for its message of second chances: “They needed all that time to stick with it and build… until it was the movie that people needed to see.”
Shot in 2021 amidst a landscape of horror and Marvel films, The Senior stands out as a rare, heartfelt gem. Its release during football season feels serendipitous, as does Angel Studios’ innovative “pay it forward” ticketing model, which Masterson and Corddry praise as “really cool.” As Masterson notes, seeing it in theaters is a must: “It’s important to see it in the theater.”
The Senior is a touchdown for audiences seeking inspiration and a reminder that it’s never too late to chase a dream. With Masterson and Corddry’s heartfelt performances and a story that sticks with you, it’s a film worth rallying behind. As the actors urge, grab your family, head to the theater, and cheer for Mike Flynt’s unforgettable comeback.
