Review of The Basketball Diaries (1995) by The Critic ( — 29 Jun 2012
As melancholic - and then some - as any story would be about such self-destructive behaviour like drug-taking, street violence, and causal sex, 'The Basketball Diaries' is a consistently fascinating tale about the downward spiral which never seems to end.
Our protagonist's redemption comes in form of a quick narrated summary, but what proceeds it is a harsh film with a strong - not powerful - lead in Leonardo DiCaprio. Contributions from the likes of Lorraine Bracco (the scene in which DiCaprio asks her for money through her chained apartment door is exceptionally well acted), Ernie Hudson, Juliette Lewis and, in a surprisingly no-holds-barred turn, Mark Wahlberg add depth and flavour to this tale.
It might not be the sort of film that has broad appeal, but 'The Basketball Diaries' is a well-written, directed, and cast production that shouldn't go unnoticed.
This review of The Basketball Diaries (1995) was written by The Critic ( on 29 Jun 2012.
The Basketball Diaries has generally received positive reviews.
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