Review of The Basketball Diaries (1995) by Daniel K — 21 Jun 2010

2: Both my sister and I thought we had seen this film back in 1995 when it was released, but we were definitely mistaken. I doubt this is the kind of film our parents would have encouraged us to watch.

It's definitely not the kind of picture I would imagine many viewers find enjoyable either. It is entertaining and watchable, after a fashion, but it's a bit too relentlessly dreary and difficult for my tastes, or at least for my mood last night.

It's definitely not the kind of picture I'll be rushing out to watch again soon. The pain and suffering just never lets up. The final minutes offer a slight reprieve, but even they aren't exactly what I would call sunshine on a cloudy day.

DiCaprio shows what would become abundantly clear later on in his career: he isn't afraid to take difficult roles if he sees value and the potential for growth in the work. He gives a very moving performance and is surrounded by solid cast members.

I'd say it would be a bit of a stretch to call the story inspirational, but it's still reasonably effective. However, there were definitely scenes and sections of the picture where I just couldn't help but either laugh or squirm, depending on the level of revulsion.

I wouldn't recommend it if you're looking for a light and fluffy Hollywood picture. It isn't exactly Hoosiers, not that that's light and fluffy, but you probably get the point if you've seen both basketball films.

The Basketball Diaries is just too difficult to watch to be good.