Kobe Doin' Work

This Spike Lee documentary about the April 2008 Western Conference–title basketball game between the Los Angeles Lakers—featuring star player Kobe Bryant—and the San Antonio Spurs answers the question “What's really going on down there on the court?” Captured by 30 cameras and a microphone on Bryant, the game unfolds in almost real time, with every conceivable angle covered for a perfect balance between sports action and human interaction. Add the stadium ambiance of Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound and a postproduction Bryant voiceover and the experience becomes nearly surreal. Lee wanted to show what it takes for a player to perform at this elite level—and he nails it. For Bryant, as with many of those at the top of their game, there is a clarity and simplicity to success on the court: in the Lakers' case (under Coach Phil Jackson), it's communication, teamwork, execution, and serious commitment (we see the nonstop intensity of Jackson and Bryant studying game films before the tip-off and during half-time, while continually thinking about the nuances of individual players). DVD extras include an introduction by Lee, a behind-the-scenes featurette, deleted scenes (including the postgame press conference), a Bruce Hornsby music video, and a photo montage. Highly recommended. Aud: P (C. Block)