On A List of Movie Reviews
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Above the Rim (1994)
Rate:
7
Viewed:
11/03, 8/13
8/13:
Above the Rim comes close to having the best basketball scenes filmed although
Hoop Dreams is unbeatable in this department.
However, there are so many WWF-style moments in the Shoot-Out tournament that defy how the game is supposed to be
played with uncalled flagrant fouls. The organizers might as well take out the referees since they serve no purpose.
As for the acting, Tupac Shakur and Duane Martin are terrific. The former, who was a talented actor, has a
captivating presence in every scene he appears, and the latter is unbelievable for his basketball skills.
On the other hand, much can be done for Leon's Tommy Sheppard who makes for an underwhelming character. The more mysterious he
is, the better the film is. It's one of the fewest sore spots. The way he carried himself throughout, I don't see what the
big deal is. Marlon Wayans is unnecessarily forced to make a fool out of himself as Bugaloo. It takes a big bite out of the drama.
Although I find Kyle Lee Watson's attitude and selfishness annoying, there's a point that's well-taken.
All in all, Above the Rim is worth watching primarily for the basketball scenes.