Hustle (2022)

Rating: 80/100
 
​Being at the right place at the right time can help get you hired, but it could also help get you fired. That is the life of an NBA scout traveling the world looking for talent, it is also the life of Stanley played by Adam Sandler in Hustle. This film is filled with NBA players and celebrities, including the co-star Bo Cruz, played by Juancho Hernangómez. Some other names include Anthony Edwards who plays Bo’s rival Kermit… I know, it’s a super intimidating name. Boban Marjanovic has a role as a 22-year-old, Julius Erving or Dr. J plays himself, Mo Wangner has an appearance, and NBA Champion, and NBA on TNT host Kenny Smith plays Stanley’s best friend. 
 
The cast is full of these NBA players listed above and many more who aren’t mentioned, their talent is seen on the court and on the big screen as the acting in this film is great! Sandler once again does an amazing job at proving he is more than a goofy comedic actor but one that should be taken seriously after being snubbed for “Uncut Gems”. Like his character Sandler puts it all on the line in this one when he is fired from his dream job shortly after a promotion and forced to groom Cruz on his own after finding him in the streets of Madrid.
 
A modern day Rocky if he took up basketball instead of boxing, Stanley, and Bo travel to Philadelphia to train for the NBA combine and reinforce Bo’s image. From intense training montages to the drama and business behind the current NBA, this movie has everything. Whether you follow basketball or you’re just a lover of movies this is for you, telling a rag to riches story about hard work and persistence. Hustle is a well-directed movie by Jeremiah Zagar, where he demonstrates his love for basketball as well as his storytelling in this inspirational film. Zagar shows the modern NBA not only through the cutthroat business but by actually showing present players and coaches, this is a film all fans can relate too and whether you’re a new fan or old you need to see Hustle!