Chang Can Dunk Review – a slam dunk coming-of-age teenage drama

Directed by Jingyi Shao, we review the Disney+ Original Movie Chang Can Dunk no spoilers.

Even though a movie is about basketball Chang can dive is designed less to present the entertainment value of the sport and more to present key life lessons that emerge throughout the story.

The Disney+ The original coming-of-age teen drama has a lot of depth and gives viewers an example that makes us reconsider our choices and how they can affect those around us.

Chang Can Dunk Review and Plot Summary

The film follows Chang, a 16-year-old basketball fan who idolizes the late Kobe Bryant and uses the NBA champion’s success to gain his confidence. Armed with a stylish haircut, new fashion ideas, and determined to shed his former geek self-image, Chang is ready to start the new school year. He shares with his best friend Bo (Ben Wang), his desire to become popular at school and land a girlfriend.

After returning to the marching band, Chang meets Kristy (Zoe Renee), the new snare player he has taken to his heart. To impress his crush and prove himself, 5’8 Chang relies on one of the most talented high school basketball players he can dunk homecoming, a decision that will change his life forever.

One thing can be said Chang can dive is how relatable the lead role is. The film reflects the struggles of teenagers during high school seeking validation and popularity from others, something we probably all experienced during our high school days. It also shows our challenges as we struggle to find interests that seduce us.

Whether it’s a hobby or a career choice, what we’re interested in and want to pursue may not be easy or something we excel at. But through patience, dedication, and passion, Chang learns that while he’s not naturally gifted at playing basketball, sacrifices made to impress the masses impact the relationships around him and bring him only temporary fulfillment.

What I liked most about the film was the Asian performance with a solid directorial debut from Jingyi Shao. His talent made the viewer feel like they were experiencing every moment from Chang’s perspective, and Bloom Li nailed his first significant acting role. Even when the character made some bad choices, I still rooted in him and hoped he would do the right thing and achieve some form of redemption.

Another important aspect of the film is the relationship Chang has with his mother, who raised him as a single parent and hopes that her son will choose an interest and pursue it. Li and Ma both do an amazing job representing a mother and son who love each other as relatives but have very different views on life and don’t bond because they don’t have much in common. But as Chang’s mother begins to see her son’s passion for basketball shine through, the two share some sentimental moments that are a joy to see.

However, there are moments in the film that feel unrealistic, predictable, and all too comfortable to move the plot forward. Of course, as with most high school-themed teenage coming-of-age movies, quintessential clichés are present, but overall Chang Can Dunks heart is in the right place.

Is 2023 Chang Can Dunk Movie Good?

Chang can dive is a must see if you like coming-of-age drama. The film makes for an enjoyable viewing experience and emphasizes honesty, patience, being true to yourself and valuing real relationships. The life lessons presented in the film inspire viewers and encourage individual growth, so overall I’d say it’s a hit.

What did you think of the 2023 Disney+ movie Chang Can Dunk? Comment below.