Kevin Costner’s 2014 film, Draft Day, is set to stream on Plex in March 2024, bringing renewed attention to a sports drama that initially struggled at the box office. The film features Costner alongside Jennifer Garner and the late Chadwick Boseman, showcasing a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most pivotal days in professional football.
Despite a production budget of $25 million, Draft Day garnered less than $30 million globally, with a mere $1 million from international markets. The film’s narrative centers on Sonny Weaver Jr., portrayed by Costner, who is the general manager of the Cleveland Browns. As NFL draft day approaches, Sonny faces significant personal and professional challenges, including a pregnant girlfriend and pressure from team ownership.
While the film did not achieve box office success, it received a more favorable critical reception than other projects in Costner’s career. On the review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a score of 60%. The consensus remarks that it is “perfectly pleasant for sports buffs and Costner fans,” but cautions that it relies heavily on conventional storytelling.
Revisiting a Sports Underdog
In the wake of Costner’s recent release, Horizon: An American Saga, which debuted in theaters during the summer of 2024, attention has shifted back to Draft Day. Despite the ambitious nature of his latest project, critical reception was lukewarm, leading to disappointing box office results. The second part of Horizon has been put on hold, leaving fans awaiting updates on its future.
As audiences anticipate Draft Day‘s streaming debut, they can expect an engaging portrayal of the sports industry, highlighting both the excitement and pressures of NFL draft day. The film’s synopsis notes, “Sonny has much more on his mind than just which players to recruit.”
This new streaming opportunity could introduce the film to a broader audience, allowing it to find its place among other sports dramas that resonate with viewers.
Costner remains a pivotal figure in the entertainment industry, and as his projects evolve, fans look forward to what lies ahead. As the streaming landscape continues to grow, Draft Day offers a reminder of the complexities within sports narratives, marrying personal stakes with professional ambitions.
With its availability on Plex, audiences can revisit a film that, though underappreciated at its release, may now capture the attention it deserves. Stay tuned for further updates on streaming releases as more content becomes available.
