Comedian Lil Rel Howery stars as Dax in “Uncle Drew” (Photo Credit: Quantrell D. Colbert/Courtesy of Lionsgate). 


 

Old Cats versus New Jacks


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Movie trailers have quite an influence on a person’s decision of what to watch.

 

Some selections are made solely on previews alone. 


And some selections are made because of how it is rated. 


Opinions are formed due to cast members, genre, subject matter, and even the score or soundtrack. 


Regardless of how decisions are made, the trailer is often a huge factor. 


There are times though, when the trailer doesn’t even scratch the surface of all the potential the movie has to offer the moviegoer. 


And because of this, it can cause a lot of moviegoers to “sleep” on movies that have the potential to be so much more than what it appears. 


The newest trailer is revealed. 


While watching, one can ask themself are they a fan of basketball stars of yesterday or basketball stars of the modern era?


One should ask himself or herself whether they are fans of some of today’s hottest comedians? 


If so, then the trailer to the movie “Uncle Drew” should catch your attention. 


However, “Uncle Drew” is so much more than the two to three minute trailer. 


There are so many life-lessons, positive messages, and several surprises that make it so much more.


The movie centers on the character Dax (Lil Rel Howery) in Harlem, N.Y. 


As an orphan, the only thing that keeps him motivated is his love for the game of basketball. 


But does the game reciprocate the love for him? 


A life-altering game changer as a youngster has Dax questioning this. 


Now as an adult, Dax works at a local Foot Locker and also coaches basketball on the side. 


He is confident about the team he coaches and has big plans for them and himself.  


After a childhood bully, Mookie (Nick Kroll) reenters the picture; he plans on making things hard for Dax again. 


Mookie ruins Dax’s confidence and his plan to compete for the $100,000 prize at the annual Rucker’s Ball Tournament. 


Dax must regroup and try to put a team together in time for the competition. 


After overhearing conversations about Uncle Drew (Kyrie Irving), Dax sets out to recruit him and some of his old teammates in hopes that he can coach them to victory. 


Uncle Drew is extremely wise and truly is “old school.”


His philosophy is to do things his way or it’s the highway.  


Uncle Drew’s old running crew Preacher (Chris Webber), Lights (Reggie Miller), Boots (Nate Robinson), and Big Fella (Shaquille O’Neal) have all gone their separate ways.  


Life has taken each of these guys on different paths, and now it’s up to Dax and Uncle Drew to mend broken friendships and bring them together one last time.


“Uncle Drew” combines old school and new school together in so many ways. 


The film will be received well by audience members of all ages. 


Although styles of music, shoes, fashion, and slang differ, these two generations learn that they have more in common than they realize. 


From dance-offs in the clubs to unique basketball strategies on the court, the one consistent is that “game recognizes game.” 


Regardless of what generation you are from, the powerful messages you get from “Uncle Drew” are timeless such as “You Don’t Have To Be Great All of the Time,” “Leave the Past In the Past,” and “Family Is The Most Important Thing.”


 There are several cameo appearances from former NBA players and announcers who shed some light about who and how influential Uncle Drew was back in the day. 


Mike Epps and JB Smooth are consistent with bringing the funny but also “words of wisdom.” 


The cast would not be complete without the talented actresses Lisa Leslie (formerly of the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks), Erica Ash, and Tiffany Haddish. 


And for those who are fans of “Shaq” on and off the court, be ready to see him like you’ve never seen him before.


As the trailer for “Uncle Drew” continues to run for the next few weeks and a decision has to be made on whether or not to go see it, remember the old adage that was taught about books. 


Now, apply it to movies…“Never judge a movie by its trailer.” 


The decision belongs to the moviegoers, you can either “sleep” on this one or “stay woke.”  


 

The choice is yours.


REGAL RATINGS

FOUR CROWNS=EXCELLENT

THREE CROWNS=GOOD

TWO CROWNS=AVERAGE

ONE CROWN=POOR


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