Above the Rim is flawed but compelling, with a dope soundtrack.
The opening flashback's admittedly goofy and like our protagonist, Shep acts like an ass in that scene, so it's hard to root for either. The credits and 2pac's theme track "Pain" follows, which is exemplary. It's a basketball film, but much more than that, the game footage its weakest aspect. You've got countless uncontested dunks, steals and fast-breaks with little to no time on the clock, time and again. Then you've got all world defender Shep who also doesn't miss, yet they don't seem to be interested in playing any d on him. Martin and Leon give solid performances, but it's the characterization of Birdie and Kyle's mother Mailika and their performances that elevate the piece. Bernie Mac's also likable in a minor role, Wayans bad mostly.
The opening flashback's admittedly goofy and like our protagonist, Shep acts like an ass in that scene, so it's hard to root for either. The credits and 2pac's theme track "Pain" follows, which is exemplary. It's a basketball film, but much more than that, the game footage its weakest aspect. You've got countless uncontested dunks, steals and fast-breaks with little to no time on the clock, time and again. Then you've got all world defender Shep who also doesn't miss, yet they don't seem to be interested in playing any d on him. Martin and Leon give solid performances, but it's the characterization of Birdie and Kyle's mother Mailika and their performances that elevate the piece. Bernie Mac's also likable in a minor role, Wayans bad mostly.