Slam Dunk

'The First Slam Dunk' marks the long-awaited return of a beloved sports anime classic, and it's a glorious sight to behold.

Outside of the court, the visuals are more of a hit-or-miss affair, blending in smoothly in some instances, and looking out of place in others. Naturally, that means first-timers are thrown right into the deep, but The First Slam Dunk thankfully provides sufficient context for them to catch up and develop a basic understanding of the overarching plot. The film opens with the reliable, swift-footed player in his younger days, as he engages in a one-on-one basketball match with his brother, who’s the ace of his team. Making a triumphant return after 26 long years, The First Slam Dunk, written and directed by Takehiko, proves to be a heartening homecoming for fans. It’s a formula that has withstood the test of time and has also bled into popular manga/anime titles over the years, regardless of their sporting nature. There’s a special brand of charm that comes with sports anime, and the appeal doesn’t just stem from the high-octane, heart-pumping action.