Hoop Dreams (1994)

VHS CASE/ SIDE

Length of film:  170 Minutes

Rated: 12

Genre: Documentary, Sport, Drama

Director: Steve James

Starring: William Gates, Arthur Agee, Emma Gates, Curtis Gates, Sheila Agee

IMDB Rank: 8.3 /10

Part 1 Time:  71 Minutes

Part 2 Time:  99 Minutes

Where does the first part end? William Gates (self) undergoes surgery to remove the cartridge from his knee.

Final line of dialogue on the first part: “At least Coach won’t have to say, ‘William, you didn’t play hard this game,'” states William.

First line of dialogue on the second part: A year has pasted, Narrator (Steve James) provides the audience with an update on Arthur stating “one year after he left, Arthur’s dad Bo rejoins the family.”

How jarring is it when the first part ends? Minimal/ Somewhat, as William undergoes surgery on his knee it is unknown whether he will still be able to play basketball at the same calibre prior to his injury.

Which part is better? Taking place over a five year period, the documentary follows two inner-city teens as they navigate high school and perfect their skills in basketball. The film shows the ups and downs both teens face and provides much insight into the oppression faced by those living within the inner city. Part two is given a slight advantage as both teens enter their senior year of high school and begin to plan for the next stage of their amateur careers.

Academy Awards: 1995- Best Film Editing (Nominated)