Cast
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Sanaa Lathan
as Monica Wright
Omar Epps
as Quincy McCall
Chris Warren
as Kelvin
Kyla Pratt
as Young Monica
Alfre Woodard
as Camille Wright
Regina Hall
as Lena Wright
Glenndon Chatman
as Young Quincy
Jess Willard
as Jamal
Naykia Harris
as Young Lena
Harry Lennix
as Nathan Wright
Debbi Morgan
as Nona McCall
Dennis Haysbert
as Zeke McCall
Al Foster
as Coach Hiserman
Colleen Matsuhara
as UCLA Coach
Gabrielle Union
as Shawnee
Crew
Director
- Gina Prince-Bythewood
Writer
- Gina Prince-Bythewood
Producer
- Spike Lee
- Sam Kitt
Reviews
Andre Gonzales
It's OK. He's a basketball star falling in love. Gotta deal with his love for basketball and his relationship.
Jul 10, 2023
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Love & Basketball examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Gina Prince-Bythewood 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 2000, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Love & Basketball took approximately 24 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $20.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 124 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 162 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 4 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 1813 individual shots.
- The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2000, when this film is released:
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Love & Basketball shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Bridges of Madison County, which focuses more on action than character development, Love & Basketball offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Manhattan and Annie Hall explore similar territory, Love & Basketball 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, 2000
- Runtime: 2h 4m
- Budget: $20,000,000
- Revenue: $27,728,118
