The filmmakers don't get the ball into the Shaq-man's hands enough -- both literally and figuratively -- to make this personable giant's screen debut memorable. full review

A deafness-inducing but otherwise ho-hum would-be expose of shady recruiting practices by college basketball programs. full review

Not even an unsentimental basketball fan like director William Friedkin can wash away all the corn syrup. full review

If Mr. Friedkin didn't have to work so strenuously framing two-shots of Mr. Nolte with this seven-foot athlete, it might be hard to remember that Mr. O'Neal has a day job. full review

What Friedkin brings to the story is a tone that feels completely accurate; the movie is a morality play, told in the realistic, sometimes cynical terms of modern high-pressure college sports. full review

If it wasn't for some exciting roundball action, Shaquille O'Neal's hulking-dunking presence and a wonderfully guttural performance from coach Nick Nolte, you'd slither off the bench asleep. full review

A rare example of an entry into this genre that attempts to be honest and unique. full review