' Above the Rim (1994)
Runtime: 1 hr 37 mins
Synopsis: Ambitious high school senior Kyle-Lee has a lot going on in his life. Not only is he anxiously waiting to hear from Georgetown about his college basketball scholarship, he's also dealing with the demands of a strict coach who doesn't want him hanging in the 'hood. Then there's his mother's new... Ambitious high school senior Kyle-Lee has a lot going on in his life. Not only is he anxiously waiting to hear from Georgetown about his college basketball scholarship, he's also dealing with the demands of a strict coach who doesn't want him hanging in the 'hood. Then there's his mother's new relationship with a security guard, which Kyle doesn't appreciate. To top it all off, his good friend Birdie -- a neighborhood gangster -- wants to know why Kyle won't hang out anymore. Hopefully, things will work out for the troubled teen, but only if he keeps his eyes on the prize. [More]
Genre: Dramas
Starring: Duane Martin, Leon, Tupac Shakur, Marlon Wayans
DVD Info
Release:
Jan 14, 2003
DVD Features:
- Region 1
- Snap Case
- Full Frame - 1.33
- Anamorphic Widescreen - 1.85
Audio:
- Dolby Digital 5.1 - English
- Dolby Surround - English
Additional Release Material:
- Trailers - 1. Original Theatrical Trailer
Interactive Features:
- Interactive Menus
- DVD-ROM Features
Buy It On DVD
Reviews
A superficial and predictable sports drama with an inner-city background, Above the Rim nevertheless offers engaging characters, fast-paced direction, and strong performances.
A fine cast and the movie's general energy can't overcome that mix of cliches and technical flaws.
A formula script, but a mobile camera, pulsing rap soundtrack and a game cast whip up the necessary fizz.
When you play with something this formulaic, you’re bound to trip upon a theme that has been endlessly explored and agonizingly overdone.
Above the Rim has its formulaic elements, but it has been vigorously directed by Jeff Pollack, who appreciates the lively and unpretentious aspects of the story.
Although well-intentioned, this film is a notch below Blue Chips.
It's Shakur who steals the show. The rapper's offscreen legal problems are well known, but there's no denying his power as an actor.
Despite obvious weaknesses, however, the film gets a huge boost from several excellent performances.
A stultifying cliche of a movie -- even by sports-flick standards -- this basketball allegory doesn't get anywhere near the rim.
The whole thing is mired in a slow-footed sea of pedantic blather. Heavy-handed explanations are given left and right, and you wish they'd all just shut up and play the game.
The movie lives easily on the streets where it is shot, and the performances -- especially by Martin, Shakur and Pinkins -- are convincing.


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