This rousing basketball drama centers around Tommy "Shep" Sheppard (Leon), a former high school basketball star now haunted by the accidental death of his best friend, and Kyle Watson (Duane Martin), an arrogant high school player in danger of slipping into crime. Though Shep avoids commitment in his life as a security guard, his attraction to Kyle's mother (Tonya Pinkins) draws him out of his protective shell--but Kyle is more interested in mentorship from Shep's gangster brother Birdie (Tupac Shakur). Above the Rim is melodramatic but played with grit and energy by a solid cast, particularly Shakur. Writer-director Jeff Pollack keeps the story moving and gives the characters enough spin to rescue them from being clichés; the result is engaging despite its formulas. Also featuring Bernie Mac and Marlon Wayans. --Bret Fetzer
2.
Ambitious high school senior Kyle-Lee has a lot going on in his life. Not only is he anxiously waiting to hear from Georgetown about his college basketball scholarship, he's also dealing with the demands of a strict coach who doesn't want him hanging in the 'hood. Then there's his mother's new relationship with a security guard, which Kyle doesn't appreciate. To top it all off, his good friend Birdie -- a neighborhood gangster -- wants to know why Kyle won't hang out anymore. Hopefully, things will work out for the troubled teen, but only if he keeps his eyes on the prize.
3.
Some games you play. Some games play you.
Kyle Lee Watson (Duane Martin) is an inner-city high school basketball star torn between college and the lure of the streets. During an important championship play-off game, Kyle grandstands to catch the attention of Birdie (Tupac Shakur), a powerful gang leader who is assembling a team to compete in the neighborhood Shoot-Out contest, a high-stakes street basketball tournament for the bragging rights of the city. With promises of good life: cash, cars and women, Birdie convinces Kyle to play on his team. now Kyle's future hangs in the balance as Birdies influence threatens his college career and possibly, his life. It's a battle for Kyle's heart and soul, resulting in one of the grittiest basketball films ever made!
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