RICH WHAT? RICHMOND!

"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine as children do. It's not just in some of us; it is in everyone. And as we let our own lights shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others."

Coach Carter is by far one of the greatest films I have ever seen. The fact that it is a true story propels its reputation further. Coach Ken Carter (Samuel L Jackson) made headlines in 1999 for benching his undefeated high school basketball team due to poor academic results, and Thomas Carter (the director) cinematically makes this narrative gritty yet uplifting; and for once shows heart by not following generic conventions as the Richmond Oilers lose the regional high school playoffs near the end. Thomas Carter produces an exceptional film that instantly educates, using Carter's awe-inspiring personal story to proclaim the vitality of education, and of basic morality. The soundtrack 'Hope' by Twista and Faith Evans leaves audiences feeling euphoric, and teaches us that there IS more to life than winning.

The audience find themselves part of the Oilers and learn to respect Carter for his methods, which can be somewhat comedic at times (Diane!). Characters such as Timo Cruz (Rick Gonzalez) are seen maturing, as he feels superior in the concrete, sinful jungle of Richmond, California, yet powerless and childlike in the world of true adult life. This serious film is tinged with comedic moments which enforce and increase the devastation of moments such as (SPOILER) Cruz's cousin's death. Lines such as Worms' riposte: 'Actually, I was on the bottom, coach, she was on the top' from Coach Carter's complaint: 'I end up taking a road trip to the suburbs where I find my drunk-ass point guard on top of Daddy's little princess.' Coach Carter not only delivers morals relating to teamwork and courage but makes us believe in them, like when Channing Tatum's Jason Lyle says 'You said we're a team. One person struggles, we all struggle. One person triumphs, we all triumph.'

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