Cast
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Leonardo DiCaprio
as Jim Carroll
Mark Wahlberg
as Mickey
James Madio
as Pedro
Lorraine Bracco
as Mrs. Carroll
Patrick McGaw
as Neutron
Ernie Hudson
as Reggie
Bruno Kirby
as Swifty
Michael Imperioli
as Bobby
Juliette Lewis
as Diane Moody
Manny Alfaro
as Manny
Toby Huss
as Kenny
Cynthia Daniel
as Winkie
Brittany Daniel
as Blinkie
Michael Rapaport
as Skinhead
Roy Cooper
as Father McNulty
Crew
Director
- Scott Kalvert
Producer
- Liz Heller
- John Bard Manulis
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Basketball Diaries examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Scott Kalvert brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1995, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Basketball Diaries took approximately 28 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $2.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 102 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 150 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 73 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1995, when this film was released:
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Basketball Diaries shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Swan Song, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Basketball Diaries subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Analyze This and The Right Stuff explore similar territory, The Basketball Diaries stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: April 21, 1995
- Runtime: 1h 42m
- Budget: $2,000,000
- Revenue: $2,381,087
