The ending of the film leaves the already troubled viewer with even more annoying questions. Yes, yes, there's a philosophical message to be found, but at the same time, it's executed so poorly that those who like philosophical movies will experience more of a moment of zen from a long eye roll.
Yet, despite all the complaining about writing, Shoot-Out is worth seeing for any lover of basketball. Actors Tyshawn Bryant and Daniel Sol look fantastic and play with exciting, poetic grace. Overall this is an excellent movie to show anyone who thinks that sports are totally isolated from the world of art and poeticism, or to show to someone who's nostalgic for the days of Roman gladiators.
Shoot-Out is an official selection for EgoFest Short Video Festival, to be screened in Brainerd, MN on June 24. A limited-edition DVD will be released on May 15; for more information, visit the Shoot-Out MySpace page, or e-mail Dream Regime.
Reviewed by Megan Giddings
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