The Heart of the Game
The Heart of the Game Image
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Metascore
74 out of 100

Generally favorable reviews - based on 26 Critics What's this?

User Score
7.8 out of 10

Generally favorable reviews- based on 6 Ratings

Your Score
0 out of 10
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  • Starring: Bill Resler, Darnellia Russell
  • Summary: This documentary focuses on the passion and energy of a girls' high school basketball team.

Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 25 out of 26
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 26
  3. Negative: 1 out of 26
  1. Portland Oregonian
    Reviewed by: M. E. Russell
    100
    Intimate, funny, moving and incredibly rousing -- even if you're allergic to sports movies.
  2. Washington Post
    Reviewed by: Ann Hornaday
    80
    Combines nonstop action with an absorbing story to become a classic on par with "Hoosiers" and "Hoop Dreams."
  3. Los Angeles Times
    Reviewed by: Kevin Crust
    80
    An exhilarating story of loyalty and perseverance, The Heart of the Game succeeds as both inspiration and social commentary.
  4. Chicago Reader
    Reviewed by: J.R. Jones
    30
    The resulting movie (2005) covers seven years and touches on some of the same social issues that gave "Hoop Dreams" its epic sweep, yet Serrill fails to treat any of them adequately, and the narrative loses its shape as events unfold.

See all 26 Critic Reviews

User Reviews

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Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 5
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 5
  3. Negative: 0 out of 5
  1. ChrisP.
    10
    This is one of the best movies I've ever seen. People will compare it to Hoop Dreams, and its tough to do so because Hoop Dreams was a classic. This movie probably isn't as good as Hoop Dreams because Ward Serrill didn't get as up close and personal with his characters as the Hoop Dreams' directors did. But what this movie has over Hoop Dreams is nonstop entertainment-a roller coaster ride with a happy ending. I cried at times during the movie but left with a smile on my face.… Expand
  2. TomP.
    9
    Strong documentary. Holds together and holds attention. Sports junkies will love this.
  3. WillardS.
    9
    What might be lacking in visual aesthetics are made up for by a really inspiring story. My 14 year old daughter has her heart set on playing pro ball and we couldn't have enjoyed this more. This film is a must for young women - a cautionary tale as well as an inspiring one. We all felt compelled to cheer throughout the film.… Expand
  4. RostoforianD.
    7
    great movie all around..could use better direction and more plot, but still very enjoyable and intresting...a sweet film.

See all 5 User Reviews

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