a review of 爱情和篮球

2024 CRITERION CHALLENGE #16: Women Auteurs + MANNVANUARY THREE, #5: Although I definitely wouldn't call myself part of the target audience for this deftly-made Black romance, I feel like its specificity in depicting the collegiate and pro athletic worlds makes the relationships and struggles feel universal. It really takes you on a journey with these characters, in watching them experience success and frustration on their paths, as well as the eventual recognition that there might be a more satisfying path taken together.