White Men Can’t Jump (1992) Movie Review

Review

The reviewer thanks Craig for sending him White Men Can’t Jump and praises it as a funny, rewatchable sports comedy. He especially enjoys the chemistry between Wesley Snipes and Woody Harrelson. Their characters begin by hustling—and hustling each other—on streetball courts before teaming up for a tournament. Their constant trash talk and playful one-upmanship are a major part of the fun.

The recap highlights the film’s sharp exchanges, outrageous “yo mama” jokes, and a memorable shooting challenge in which Billy realizes he has been played. The reviewer also praises Rosie Perez’s performance as Billy’s girlfriend, Gloria, whose Jeopardy! ambitions become important to the plot. He finds the Jeopardy! scenes a little awkward and distracting, though.

The basketball sequences earn praise for being clear and lively rather than obscured by shaky editing. The reviewer points to the tournament finale and Billy’s eventual dunk as satisfying moments. He also likes that the ending gives Billy and Sidney a new friendship instead of reuniting Billy and Gloria. For him, the character work and buddy chemistry make the movie more than just a basketball film.

Blu-ray and Extras

The Blu-ray includes theatrical and extended cuts, with the longer version adding a brief scene about the tournament trophies. The reviewer wishes the release had more interviews and extras, and argues that a special edition would be more worthwhile than a remake.

Closing Thoughts

The reviewer calls the film an entertaining hit and says he plans to review the leads’ later team-up, Money Train.

Personalities Mentioned

• The reviewer
• Craig
• Wesley Snipes
• Woody Harrelson
• Rosie Perez
• Director Ron Shelton
• Kadeem Hardison
• Alex Trebek
• Basketball coach Bob Lanier
• Kenya Barris