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MOVIES
More Than a Game
More Than a Game
WOSU Film Critics Joyce and Rico Long review "More Than a Game." Rico: "More Than a Game" is not just the bio of LeBron James, but also his teammates at Akron's St Vincent - St Mary's high school, as well.
It's the story one of the greatest high school teams to ever play the sport and their very special coach, Dru Joyce. His son Dru III is one of the fabulous five.

Joyce: From the very beginning of this story, LeBron was also very special, where the term "legendary" is appropriate.

Rico: The beginning, and actually most of the game footage appears to have been shot on a cel phone. It's some of the worst footage I've ever seen on the big screen, but the story is so compelling that this grainy, poorly lit, hand held camerawork is certainly much better than the alternative - nothing.

There are many interviews (thankfully shot on a tripod and a real camera).

Joyce: Actually the boys start their careers quite young, while only sixth graders who played on a neighborhood team in a decrepit inner-city gym, coached by incredible Dru Joyce. The marvelous relationship between them and their coach resulted in a seven year odyssey to the national championship in their senior year.

Rico: Much is explained about the super star from his amazing talent to his poor childhood, raised by a single mother who consistently does the best she can for him. We really see what makes "King James" tick.

Joyce: It's technically flawed but it's amazing how much news footage, personal interviews, family photographs and never-before-seen home videos vividly present this wonderful story which, indeed, is appropriately titled "More Than a Game." And by the way, there's no bad language.

Rico: Although some, actually much, of the footage can be difficult to watch due to its technical limitations, the story is what counts and it's terrific.

They might have reenacted it, ala "Hoosiers", but this is the real deal.

Joyce: But we learn equally as much about the other members of the team, many of whom had difficult struggles.

Rico: I'll cut them some slack and give it ***1/2 stars and a green light.

Joyce: Audiences of all ages, except little ones will respond to this. It's an inspirational film that makes you leave smiling.

Joyce: I gave it ***1/2 stars as we