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Roach & Seals Reels
By Chris Roach Assistant A&E Editor and Donnie Seals Managing Editor "Love & Basketball" on DVD
FEATURES:
There are many films in which you know the story within the first two minutes of watching. You know what the problem will be, and you know how the film ends. Sometimes this can make for a boring, predictable, déjà vu evoking waste of time. Sometimes though, if the movie has strong, likeable characters, and the story has heart to it, then you can’t help but be drawn in, and enjoy the ride. “Love & Basketball” is one of these films. The title does not lead you astray, because this is the story of a man and a woman who play basketball and fall in love. Their passion for the game (of basketball) brings them together and breaks them apart. Followed from the age of 11 through the age of 23, the two court-crossed lovers Monica (Sanaa Lathan) and Quincy (Omar Epps) encounter many life-changing decisions, bonds formed and broken, and turmoil that happens outside the free throw line. Though “Love & Basketball” is a film with many clichés, it stands out due to its interesting and very likeable characters. Monica is the true protagonist of the movie, and her struggles are brought to life, with heart, by Sanaa Lathan’s stand out performance. She made me believe that her love for basketball was real and also showed the reality of her character, which made the movie that much more enjoyable. New Line has released the DVD of “Love & Basketball” as part of their illustrious “Platinum Series.” Everything extra that has made the DVD format popular is included on this disc. There are two separate audio commentaries, one with director Gina Prince-Bythewood and star Sanaa Lathan. The other is an isolated score track, that includes the film’s composer, editor, and more from Prince-Bythewood. There is also the option of listening to commentary on any of the nine deleted scenes, to help get a better understanding of why the scene was omitted from the film. You can view the theatrical trailer, a storyboard presentation, a Lucy Pearl music video, and audition tapes as well, as they are all included. Plus, for you comedy lovers, this DVD also has a blooper reel. However, the real gem is a 35-minute original documentary entitled “Breaking the Glass Ceiling.” It is about “the rise and acceptance of women competitors.” The piece is an in-depth examination of women’s continual rise in male dominated sports and other walks of life, and is hosted by a wide array of women who are currently “breaking the glass ceiling” themselves. “Love & Basketball” is by no means a great film. However, it does have what an entertaining movie should: solid, likeable characters, an interesting plot line, and moments that make you feel good. If you see and like this movie, I highly recommend picking up the DVD. It is packed with extras the way the United Center was packed with fans back in the Jordan era. Besides, what other Omar Epps film are you going to buy? “The Mod Squad?” Yeah right, I’d rather watch the Bulls play now. AUDIO What can I say about this movie? It’s a drama that’s surrounded with a variety of hip hop and 90’s R&B/Soul that fills the room. Besides some of the basketball scenes, this soundtrack is nothing special. VIDEO New Line does not disappoint with the release of this video presentation. The 1:85:1 is clean and crisp without any sort of blemishes. Although I might add the introduction menu screen, as annoying as it was, was more pixilated than expected. Back to top | Home Webmaster: Sal J. Barry The Columbia Chronicle is a student produced publication of Columbia College Chicago and does not necessarily represent, in whole or in part, the views of Columbia College administrators, faculty or students. |
October 23, 2000
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