[No spoilers, this is a must-see]
There’s a lot to say about Steve James’ Hoop Dreams (1994), a rare three-dimensional account of African-American lives on their paths of glory. It is impossible to watch this story of inner-city kids, who have dreams of becoming rich and famous by way of professional basketball, without a sense of hope and melancholia towards them.
This acclaimed documentary was shot over the course of five years. The film takes its subject very seriously, so much so that it is never judgmental, or condescending. Its rigorous journalistic approach allows us to follow these kids and identify with them all the way through. As they navigate the competitive world of scholastic athletics, they have to deal with injuries, self-doubt, the intense pressures of their home lives, and the hood.
Hoop Dreams is one of the best documentaries you’ll ever watch hands down, and here’s why: There’s no greater story than life itself. If this statement can cause some skepticism, here are some numbers: Hoop Dreams made $11.8 million against a budget of only $700,000; the documentary is certified fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, and holds a 98% rate on their website; the film was ranked #1 on the International Documentary Association’s Top 25 Documentaries list, based on polling of members in 2007.
However, we want to go beyond these figures, as there’s an incredible quality at the heart of this tremendous documentary film. So, let’s explore the main reasons behind this terrific character-study, where storytelling rules and non-fiction merge into one whole, giving birth to a true masterpiece of American non-fiction cinema.
5 Defining Features of a Great Documentary
Unprecedented Access
Hoop Dreams provides an intimate and unprecedented look into the lives of its protagonists, Arthur Agee and William Gates, two African-American inner-city kids with the aim of becoming professional hoopers. The director, Steve James, followed the boys and their families for over five years, capturing their struggles, achievements, and personal journeys. This level of access is a significant factor in the film’s cultural impact and social commentary.
Emotional Engagement
This three-hour documentary sparks strong emotional responses from its viewers all the way through its fast-paced narrative. By following the kids’ lives, from their teenage years through adolescence, the film delves into their dreams, setbacks, and the challenges they face both on and off the basketball court. Those who watch this film will be deeply invested in the characters and their aspirations, experiencing the same turmoil and sparks of excitement during their reversals of fortune.
Social Commentary
Social issues, such as race, class, education, and the American Dream, are the spine of this work. This is not just a film about basketball. Hoop Dreams examines the obstacles and social barriers faced by the boys as they navigate their way through the highly competitive world of scholastic athletics, facing economic challenges and limited opportunities. Through their stories, the documentary sheds light on larger issues of social inequality, sport scholarships, and the impact they have on specific communities.
Cinematic Quality
This work showcases exceptional filmmaking craftsmanship. It is expertly edited to encapsulate years of footage into a cohesive and engaging narrative. The storytelling techniques, use of music, and cinematography all contribute to the film’s immersive experience. The filmmakers’ ability to capture intimate moments and portray the boys’ lives in a compelling manner showcases their skill and dedication to this craft.
Lasting Impact
Hoop Dreams has had a lasting impact on the documentary genre and its audience up until this day. The film was a commercial success and received critical acclaim upon its release. Its extensive recognition and numerous accolades, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Film Editing, helped bring non-fiction cinema to a wider audience as well.
Weighing the Magnitude
Films like Hoop Dreams are necessary in so many ways. They challenge our views, cause multiple reactions, and make us think in new ways about the world around us. In the words of Roger Ebert, one of the most prominent and influential American film critics, “Hoop Dreams gives us the impression of having touched life itself.”
This film challenges the filmgoer in two contrasting ways. First of all, regardless of their cultural background, people can find themselves in it. Subsequently, they can find a break from their identity, abandoning their ego and judgment for a few hours, connecting with another human being, through his struggle, and his pursuit of happiness.
In this case, Steve James allowed us to step into the shoes of two silent characters, symbols of a generation and a culture that could no longer be silenced, and let us into their minds. It’s is not a political film, and yet it becomes one by means of the expressive power of its protagonists and the environment in which they were born.
