An unexpectedly good movie, "A League of Ordinary Gentlemen" is about bowling. Yes, the movie is about bowling. I like to bowl, but as a leisurely activity. I do not see it as a sport, nor do I like to watch it on television.

And that is exactly what "Ordinary Gentlemen" is about (not to be confused with a Sean Connery dud of a film that came out with a very similar name). Bowling was hugely popular a few decades ago, apparently (I wasn't alive at the time, so I can't say for sure), but in recent years has faded into obscurity, at least in terms of being seen as a serious sport. Every time I go to the bowling alley it seems pretty crowded, but at the same time none of those people are sitting at home watching it on TV.

The documentary is well-done and explores some of the key players, the financers (three former Microsoft employees) and the sport. At times funny and never boring, "Ordinary Gentlemen" is a fine documentary. At the same time, except for the scene where the marketing guy explains what is wrong with the business of bowling, nothing stands out as incredible to me. Compared to the A-level documentaries of the year, it has nothing remarkable to offer.

"A League of Ordinary Gentlemen" is a good documentary. While it doesn't amaze, it serves its purpose.

Review by Erik Samdahl. Erik is a marketing and technology executive by day, avid movie lover by night. He is a member of the Seattle Film Critics Society.