remarkable

Rating: 9/10 (16 December 2005)

This was one of the most remarkable biopics I have seen in recent years. Samuel L. Jackson gives a marvelous performance as Richmond (CA) basketball coach Ken Carter, who has just been hired for the job. He makes it clear to his players that he means serious business. He makes them sign a contract requiring them to maintain a 2.3 GPA, show up for all their classes, and wear a coat and tie on game days, among other things. He wants them to earn the title "student athletes," with student coming first. When they break the terms of the contract, he locks them out of practice and games until they get their priorities straight, which I thought was the right thing to do. This was one of Jackson's best roles and performances. I think the movie was very well done and made me think about my priorities as well. A winner.
*** out of ****