SLIFF is excited to host “American Underdog,” the fest's Centerpiece Event, which tells the inspirational true story of Kurt Warner (Zachary Levi), who went from a stock boy at a grocery store to a two-time NFL MVP, Super Bowl champion, and Hall of Fame quarterback. Kurt and Brenda Warner, who served as executive producers on the film, will attend the screening and hold a post-film Q&A. St. Louisans need no reminders about Warner’s storied career, which started here with the Rams when he went from essentially unknown backup to starter in 1999 after Trent Green suffered a torn ACL in the preseason. The Rams, of course, won the Super Bowl that season, and Warner and the “Greatest Show on Turf” went on an historic three-year offensive spree that produced a second Super Bowl appearance. Later, he took the perennially woebegone Arizona Cardinals — another franchise familiar to locals — to their first Super Bowl. The film centers on Warner’s unique story and the years of challenges and setbacks that could have derailed his aspirations to become an NFL player — it is only with the support of his wife, Brenda (Anna Paquin), and the encouragement of his family, coaches, and teammates that Warner perseveres and finds the strength to show the world the champion that he already is. “American Underdog” is an uplifting story that demonstrates that anything is possible when you have faith, family, and determination. With Kurt and Brenda Warner.

Sponsored by Jilanne and Rick Barnes