There’s a romantic notion in sports: if you work hard enough, if you want it bad enough, anything is possible. You hear the buzz words by commentators over and over again: “that kid’s got tenacity,” they’ll say. “He’s determined—he’s got the edge.” It’s a heavily entrenched trope in the film world too. The underdog story—the “Rocky” or the “Rudy. ” It’s a concept as American as apple pie and…well…football.

But, there’s a dark side to this idea as well. Not to bury the lead too much, but Lance Oppenheim’s documentary, The Off-Season, explores this aforementioned romantic notion, and in doing so, proves just how unromantic it actually is. What happens when tenacity and unbridled enthusiasm aren’t enough?

This film tells the story of Kahlil Bell—a pro football player who’s fallen on hard times. Once considered to be a rookie sensation, he’s now forced to face the harsh reality that he many not have “the stuff” to have a long career in the NFL. Throughout the course of the film, it’s clear that Kahlil is a remarkable individual and athlete. He also is more than a bit disillusioned, blinded by the bright lights of a big dream. Is his unstoppable drive inspiring? Or, is it somewhat sad? When exactly does perseverance become a negative attribute? When should someone just stop?

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