Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

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Screenwise Verdict

This is a solid, thoughtful documentary that goes deeper than ESPN highlights. It's not hagiography—it shows Kobe's obsessive drive, his conflicts, and his flaws alongside his undeniable greatness.

The challenge for parents: this isn't just about basketball. It's about a complicated person with a complicated legacy, including his 2003 sexual assault case (which he settled). The doc addresses it but doesn't dwell on it, which means you'll likely need to provide context for your teen.

Watching it post-2020 adds a layer of poignancy that wasn't there on release. It's now a time capsule of Kobe reflecting on mortality, legacy, and what he wanted to build after basketball—making it more powerful but also more emotionally complex.

For sports-obsessed teens or kids interested in what drives excellence, it's enriching. For casual viewers or younger kids? It's going to feel slow and heavy. This is a 'watch with your high schooler and talk about it after' situation, not a family movie night pick.

Age Fit

Best for high schoolers (15+) who can handle nuanced discussions about legacy, controversy, and the cost of greatness. Basketball fans and teens interested in sports psychology will get the most from it, but the documentary format and mature themes make it inappropriate for middle schoolers and below.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

72

Documentary presents Kobe's journey with emotional depth, showing his work ethic, mentorships, and personal challenges. Models dedication and perseverance, though the intense competitive drive and personal struggles (including references to his 2003 sexual assault case) add complexity. The tone is respectful but unflinching about his flaws.

Imaginative

58

While well-crafted as a documentary, it's primarily a biographical retrospective rather than something that sparks creativity or exploration. Offers insight into an athlete's mindset and the creative aspects of basketball mastery, but doesn't invite active participation or imaginative engagement beyond passive viewing.

Safe

68

No graphic violence, gore, or explicit content, but does address Kobe's 2003 sexual assault allegation and other personal controversies. Common Sense Media rates it 15+, suggesting mature themes that require context. Sports footage includes typical basketball physicality. Not shocking for teens but requires parental awareness of the topics covered.

Enriching

78

Strong exploration of excellence, work ethic, mentorship, and the psychological demands of elite performance. Offers genuine insight into overcoming adversity, dealing with public scrutiny, and the cost of greatness. IMDb 7.8 and Letterboxd 3.8/5 suggest solid reception. Valuable for teens interested in sports, psychology, or personal development.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Rare behind-the-scenes access to Kobe's daily life, training, and mindset during his 18th NBA season
Honest exploration of mentorships, rivalries, and personal challenges that shaped one of basketball's greatest players
Strong lessons about work ethic, resilience, and the psychology of elite performance
Doesn't shy away from complexity—shows both the brilliance and the controversies
Poignant viewing post-2020, adding layers of meaning to his reflections on legacy

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What to Watch For

References to Kobe's 2003 sexual assault case and other controversies—requires mature processing and likely parent context
Documentary pacing may feel slow for kids used to fast-cut content
Intense focus on competition and winning at all costs might need discussion about balance
Some language and adult themes appropriate for high schoolers, not younger kids

Conversation Starters

"What do you think it takes to be the best at something? Is the sacrifice worth it?"
"Kobe talks about his 'Mamba Mentality'—what does that mean to you, and where could you apply it?"
"How do you think someone's mistakes should affect how we remember their accomplishments?"
"What mentors or rivals have pushed you to be better at something you care about?"

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