Hustle

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⭐ 8.0/10

(Originally written by Tim)

This movie is a real treat. A classic sports movie with no real surprises, it nails all the story beats and leaves you feeling like you could run through a wall. Adam Sandler plays a scout who dreams of being an NBA coach, and bets it all on some random street baller he finds. There are trials and tribulations, the longest workout montage ever, villains and misunderstandings, all ending in redemption and tears. You can probably see it in your head right now.

What makes this on good is the earnest love it has for basketball. The basketball scenes look pretty real, and it is full to the brim with NBA players. They do a good job of not making them act too much, with the notable exception of the star of the movie, who is fine, and Kenny Smith. If you know me you know I can't stand Kenny, but he actually does a solid job in the fairly beefy role. The real standout here is Anthony Edwards as the villain. He is completely hate-able but so so good at it. This kid's gonna be a star.

Adam Sandler is good too, and I thought the family dynamics were cute. Check this one out if you love basketball.

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