Monday, December 21, 2009

Hoop Dreams - 1994 - 4½ Stars

Director: Steve James

There are 12 men on an NBA basketball roster, and there are 30 teams. Some elementary math shows there's 360 NBA roster spots. How can a person believe themselves capable of meeting every challenge necessary to make it there? This documentary film shows two gifted young players' journey towards the NBA and towards manhood.

I wouldn't even dream of spoiling this movie because it's not a movie - its 'endings' are that of existence. At several points I would chastise myself for predicting the future - I've been honed by Hollywood and sports movies to know what's coming. What it eventually impresses upon us is that illusions are no way to run a life, but for some they're the best way; our hopes are brittle and beautiful and necessary.

2 comments:

  1. I have no idea how I've gone so long without seeing this movie. I've been wanting to forever.

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  2. one of my all-time favorite documentaries.

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