The Basket
Peter Coyote (E.T., Erin Brokovich) and Karen Allen (The Perfect Storm) star in this touching family drama about the unifying power of basketball in a community torn apart by war. Both a riveting sports film and a tale of triumph over adversity, The Basket is "a hoop dream movie with a whole lot of heart" (Dallas Morning News)! In 1918, when the wheat-farming townspeople of Waterville, Washington, welcome home their first wounded son from WWI, they'restruck by the harsh reality of war. And just as bigotry and hatred toward two German orphans dividethe close-knit community, a new schoolteacher, Martin (Coyote), rolls into town with some strange ideas and an even stranger leather ball. Through the brand-new game called basketball, Martin strivesto bring harmony to the town...before it tears itself apart!
Insights
Plot Summary
A young Native American boy named Billy is sent to an all-white boarding school where he is forced to suppress his heritage and learn to play American football. He faces prejudice and challenges but finds a mentor in a retired football coach who helps him discover his potential on and off the field. The film explores themes of identity, cultural assimilation, and the power of sports to bridge divides.
Critical Reception
The Basket received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its emotional depth and performances, particularly from the young lead, while others found the narrative predictable and melodramatic. Audience reception was generally more positive, appreciating the inspirational sports story and its handling of sensitive cultural themes.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its heartfelt performances and inspirational sports narrative.
- Criticized for a predictable storyline and overly sentimental tone.
- Notable for its exploration of Native American identity within an American sports context.
Google audience: Information not available for Google user reviews.
Fun Fact
The film was shot on location in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, utilizing the city's distinct landscape and facilities to represent both the boarding school and the football field.
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