23/08/2023
"It's time to get live. It's to represent. Sunset Park what time is it?"
"Sunset Park" (1996) is a sports drama directed by Steve Gomer and written by Seth Zvi Rosenfeld and Kathleen McGhee-Anderson. Jersey Films produced the movie, a production company founded by Danny Divito. The film stars Rhea Perlman as the head coach for an urban high school basketball team consisting of Fredo Starr, Terrence Howard, Talent Harris, Anthony C. Hall, Antwon Tanner, and De'aundre Bonds.
Several movies had central themes involving characters in high school. "Sunset Park" was one of many films between 1988 and 1999 with this theme. In addition, some films carried a central component, which usually involved a white teacher or coach helping urban teenagers achieve particular success. For instance, in the same year (1996), Sony Pictures released "High School High," which spoofed these movie themes.
"Sunset Park" is a feel-good movie with a straightforward plot. It's a 1996 New York City timestamp, along with the style, culture, and music. The soundtrack to the film peaked at number four on the Billboard 200 and number one on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums.
Director: Steve Gomer
Writers: Seth Zvi Rosenfeld, Kathleen McGhee-Anderson
Starring Rhea Perlman, Fredro Starr, Terrence Howard, De'aundre Bonds, Talent Harris, Anthony C. Hall, Antwon Tanner, Shawn Michael Howard, Guy Torry, Rhonda Stubbins White
Storyline
White gym teacher, Phyllis Saroka (Rhea Perlman), takes over the coaching of an inner-city high-school basketball team. She begins the enterprise to earn money to open her dream restaurant after her lover leaves her. Learning about basketball and coaching as she goes, she transforms herself and her team -- including Shorty (Fredro Starr), who is always in trouble with the law, and talented but perpetually stoned Butter (James Harris) -- from losers to winners.
https://www.daarac.ngo
https://www.daaracarchive.org/2011/12/sunset-park-1996_4.html
Available on DVD and streaming services.