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Shooting Stars is a film that focuses on LeBron James’ formative years. Dribblers will enjoy this film that takes us back to the NBA star’s journey growing up. Based on the book of the same name and authored by James and Buzz Bissinger, it explores James’ community, education and the teammates who shaped him into a basketball legend he is today.

The film centers on James’ (Marquis Mookie Cook) AAU team, the Shooting Stars. It showcases the undeniable chemistry that develops between him and his teammates. However, over time, the narrative falters as the team splinters due to varying levels of talent, with a focus on the shortest player, Dru (Caleb McLaughlin), trying to stay relevant.

The team’s journey continues at St. Vincent-St. Mary’s High School, where they face challenges navigating a predominantly white environment. Coach Dambrot (Dermot Mulroney) initially trusts them but quickly abandons ship, leaving Dru’s father (Wood Harris) to guide the team’s meteoric rise. By junior year, LeBron became a national sensation, straining the tight bonds of the Fab Four.

The film treads familiar ground, exploring the well-worn trope of a group dissolving under pressure. The beauty of the film is that it intelligently avoids relegating James’ teammates to mere sidekicks at the start but subtly shifts the focus towards him.

WHERE TO WATCH- You can watch the film on Netflix or catch the trailer (watch the trailer,runtime 2:31)

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