Watch White Men Can't Jump
- R
- 1992
- 1 hr 55 min
-
6.8 (89,475)
White Men Can't Jump is a 1992 sports-comedy film directed by Ron Shelton and starring Wesley Snipes, Woody Harrelson, and Rosie Perez. Set in the streets of Los Angeles, the movie tells the story of two men - Billy Hoyle (Harrelson), a white hustler, and Sidney Deane (Snipes), a black basketball player - who team up to hustle players in pick-up games. The movie begins with Billy arriving in Los Angeles, hoping to make a living by hustling basketball players. He meets Sidney, a skilled basketball player, who offers to play with him. Billy refuses, citing to Sidney that he can't jump, a notion Sidney dismisses. After several insults, the two decide to team up to hustle players around their area. Their teamwork helps them to win several games and make good money. As they begin to trust each other, their friendship also grows. However, their questionable tactics catch the attention of a group of gangsters who offer them a high-stakes game. They accept and train hard for the game, but things get complicated when they both realize that they have personal problems that affect their gameplay. Billy has to deal with his troubled relationship with his girlfriend, Gloria Clemente (Perez), who is also struggling with her own personal problems. Gloria is portrayed as a hyperactive, excitable woman who appears to be in love with Billy, but their relationship is often fraught with arguments and disagreements. As their relationship continues to deteriorate, Billy's focus on basketball is affected, and he struggles to keep up with Sidney's pace. Meanwhile, Sidney has his own financial struggles and owes a lot of money to a dangerous gangster. The tension between Sidney and the gangster grows as the game approaches, putting the two friends in grave danger. As the final game takes place, tensions between Billy and Sidney come to a boil, but they eventually put their differences aside to help each other win the game. The ending of the movie is both satisfying and bittersweet, as their friendship is solidified, while some of their personal issues remain unresolved. The movie is notable for its depiction of the cultural differences in basketball and how race plays a role in the sport. The movie is also praised for its witty script and commentary on life in Los Angeles. The performances in the movie are outstanding, with Woody Harrelson playing the role of Billy with great wit and charm, while Wesley Snipes is charismatic and magnetic as Sidney. Rosie Perez also delivers a memorable performance as Gloria, providing a sharp contrast to the two male leads. In conclusion, White Men Can't Jump is an engaging, entertaining sports-comedy movie that explores themes of friendship, culture, and race, while delivering a witty and engaging story. With its witty script, excellent performances and satisfying ending, the movie remains an enjoyable watch for fans of sports movies and comedies alike.