Over the years, there have been many sports movies that have had a profound effect on my emotional viewing. THE MEAN MACHINE (AKA THE LONGEST YARD)(1974), ROCKY (1976) and its’ sequels, SLAP SHOT (1977) and the Oscar-winning CHARIOTS OF FIRE (1981). All these films have provided moments and a narrative through-arc that I always come back to from time to time.
Although at first glance the idea of viewing an Anime film might conjure up a certain expectation – and a desire to not view it – hold on a moment. Already proving a financial phenomenon in the Far East, THE FIRST SLAM DUNK is certainly going to be a movie that you could give a million to one shot like Stallone’s immortal iconic character.
Based on a Manga comic from Takehiko Inoue, THE FIRST SLAM DUNK is the tale of two brothers amidst a crucial basketball game between two rival high schools, Shohoku and Sannoh. At the heart of the story is the Miyagi family – led by two brothers, Ryota and Sota. They have that dynamic and sometimes conflicting sibling rivalry that is unified by their passion for the game. However, a family tragedy is imminent which not only affects younger brother Ryota, but could also affect Shohoku’s destiny in the game against their rivals….
THE FIRST SLAM DUNK comes to the UK with its’ already spiralling reputation of success in the Far East intact – and I defy anyone not to be on the edge of their seat by the close of play. It’s a well-illustrated and well-structured film that keeps its’ emotions always on the surface. Utilising classic sports motifs of relationships, coupled with a classic coming-of-age narrative, this stunningly-rendered animation with a bright and sunny pallet helps to enhance a highly charged emotional core.
One positive effect of its’ established success is that the Anime brand could get more attention on the rest of its’ filmography which isn’t a bad thing in the grand scheme of things. In the meantime, take your seats in the cinematic court for one of the most rewarding cinematic experiences of 2023.
THE FIRST SLAM DUNK hits UK Cinemas on August 30th 2023
Poster Copyright © I.T. PLANNING, INC. © 2022 THE FIRST SLAM DUNK Film Partners
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