Rise

The Antetokounmpo's story is incredible, but the directing was lackluster, and even worse, Disney exhausted all the goodness out of the story by focusing more on wokeness.

The casting and performances were excellent by all, as was the cinematography and score. The pacing was slow, that the 113 min runtime dragged out. The story needed more content (and excitement), or a shorter runtime.

Overall if you're a sports fan and specifically an NBA and/or Giannis fan, this is a good one-time watch. As an exciting drama though, Hustle blows this one out of the water.

American Underdog was good, but let's face it. There wasn't much faith in that movie. Rise actually shows more prayer and openness about faith in God. The family is exactly the kind you want to emulate, and the morals and values are exactly what you want your kids to learn. This is a beautiful film made with Nigerian actors and directed by a Nigerian Filmmaker. It is a great cross between independent films, and Disney's inspirational sports films. It's wholesome, enjoyable, and uplifting.

... Greek and proud as f for this family and if I weren't a sports fan, I would think that it was a terrible movie.

Everything screams Disney from miles away.

The colors, the light, the filming were so off-putting. Acting was barely OK, dialogues were cheesy AF, no wonder the last 2 minutes with the real footage and the story of the family were the highlight.

A missed opportunity, but don't get me wrong, Yannis and his family wanted to do this and I hope it inspires a lot of kids around the world (who probably can't afford Disney+ but that's another story) RIP Charles, it was nice to hear your story.

Rise is a solid drama based on the Antetokounmpo brothers that made it through refugee discrimination, a broken home and the constant fear of deportation to all being in the NBA. It's straight-forward and has a great tone of discipline, courage and dedication.

It's a heart warming true story which is really more about a family than basketball. That said - it picks up steam as you go - but it starts off a little slowly. Nonetheless, very enjoyable - it's a good heartfelt true story!