Starting in late May 1944, during the German retreat on the Eastern Front, Captain Stransky (Helmut Griem) orders Sergeant Steiner (Richard Burton) to blow up a railway tunnel to prevent Russian forces from using it. Steiner's platoon fails in its mission by coming up against a Russian tank. Steiner then takes a furlough to Paris just as the Allies launch their invasion of Normandy.
A talented young quarterback, John "The Rocket" Rooney, faces immense pressure and personal challenges as he strives to lead his struggling college football team to victory. Battling injuries, the expectations of his family, and the temptations of fame, Rooney must find the inner strength to overcome adversity and realize his potential on and off the field.
Breakthrough was met with a mixed reception from critics, with some praising its emotional depth and Kevin Bacon's performance, while others found the narrative formulaic and predictable. Audiences generally responded positively to the inspirational sports drama elements.
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This film marked one of Kevin Bacon's earliest leading roles in a feature film, showcasing his emerging talent.
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