This animated feature has clinched a ‘perfect’ rating from Rotten Tomatoes, boasting a 100% score after being showered with five-star reviews.
The First Slam Dunk, a Japanese sports film that debuted in 2022 following the triumph of the Inoue Slam Dunk manga series, may not be widely known among movie buffs but it certainly made a splash in the industry, raking in an impressive $279 million globally.
It soared to become the sixth highest-grossing Japanese film internationally and the most successful basketball film ever made.
Audiences have been effusive in their praise, with some hailing it as “one of the best animated films ever.” One thrilled viewer enthused: “One of the greatest movies I’ve seen in my life.
“I’m not kidding. Amazing animation, amazing soundtrack, amazing story-all amazingly executed.”
They continued, “And the best part is it’s a movie for everyone. Even if you don’t like anime.
“Even if you don’t like basketball. Even if you don’t care about sports.
“Enough said, go watch it! ! !” Another was equally astonished, writing: “Thought I would get some nostalgia on this but totally blown away by the rearrangement.
“Those who read and watch the manga and anime series will be totally surprised by this. The animation is totally top tier!”
The movie chronicles the tale of high schooler Ryota Miyagi, who plays point guard for Shohoku High School’s basketball team. Ryota’s passion for basketball was ignited by his older brother , reports the Mirror US.
Alongside teammates Hanamichi Sakuragi, Takenori Akagi, Hisashi Mitsui, and Kaede Rukawa, Ryota confronts reigning champions in an intense match, interlaced with flashbacks of his history. One viewer exclaimed, “This movie will make you stand up and cheer,” elaborating further, “This movie gets what makes basketball great.
“I was so into the game that I was sweating and my heart was racing while I watched.” They added with fervour, “I would say that I was at the edge of my seat the whole time, but that’s not true.
“I actually stood up to cheer and pump my fist as I watched. I can say all the sports movie review cliché stuff about this film, and it is all true.”
Takehiko Inoue, the writer and creator of The First Slam Dunk, also penned Vagabond, establishing him as the author of two mega-successful manga series. His work predominantly delves into basketball, reflecting his profound affection for the sport and drawing other aficionados to his narratives.
For basketball enthusiasts, manga buffs, or just lovers of top-notch animation, the proof of The First Slam Dunk’s acclaim is in the numbers. For those eager to see how they’ve translated this story into 124 captivating minutes, the film is ready to stream on Netflix right this moment.