So often, Disney films smooth over some of the uglier bits that plague human society. However, in showcasing Charles and Vera's journey from Lagos to Istanbul and eventually Athens, award-winning Nigerian film director Akin Omotoso refuses to shy away from the racism, xenophobia, humiliation, and everything else the two encounter.
Rise scores as first-rate family filmmaking and a worthy reminder that some dreams can and do come true — big time.
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The New York TimesCalum Marsh
The New York TimesCalum Marsh
It’s not simply a movie about how Giannis became one of the most dominant players in the league. It’s about why Giannis is so lovable.
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Screen RantFerdosa Abdi
Screen RantFerdosa Abdi
It is a solid sports biopic that aims to celebrate the cherished memories the Antetokounmpos have and their continued success as a united, happy, and prosperous family.
The movie’s points about immigration are made early; much of the rest amounts to good things eventually happening to talented and hard-working people. That might be a story, but it’s not much of a drama.