High Flying Bird (2019)

This is the second movie by Steven Soderbergh (after Unsane) to be shot entirely with an iPhone.  To borrow the words of one reviewer, it is “a wordy, witty and at times impenetrable basketball drama”.

To be clear, this isn’t strictly a sports movie: it’s about the politics and the business of the sport.  Even so, it isn’t necessary to be familiar with the ins and outs of US basketball to enjoy the movie.  It’s just that those who are, will enjoy the movie much more.

The performances are solid, and the dialogue is smart and frequently razor-sharp.  But what stood out for me the most is how scene after scene unfolds with ambiguity and intrigue that keeps you in suspense till it is resolved.  All throughout it is clear that machinations are at work, and only at the end do you find out who was playing who (no pun intended).  Still, I believe that a second viewing will be necessary for many of us to fully appreciate the meaning and context of all that is said.

Here’s a link to the trailer.