Hoop Dreams Director Steve James Talks About the Film's Lasting Impact

In the 20 years since its release, has become a requisite viewing for all aspiring basketball players. Director Steve James' landmark project followed Chicago teenagers William Gates and Arthur Agee on their quest to make it to the NBA. Neither made it that far, but both still became success stories as they were able to help their families and change lives through their ambition.?drew critical acclaim upon release, as its examination of city life in America caught the attention of people who never set foot on a basketball court. As a result, the film's reach has made it one of the most celebrated films of the 20th century, and a pivotal source of creative inspiration. You could argue that ESPN's 30 for 30 series wouldn't exist without .Prior to a screening of a restored version of the film at the Doc NYC Film Festival this weekend, Triangle Offense spoke to James about the film's origin, obstacles, and legacy. In between, there's insightful dialogue about the business of basketball and matters that the NCAA needs to address.?

Triangle Offense: A love for basketball obviously motivated Hoop Dreams, but what made you want to focus on young black lives and the societal issues they faced?

IMDB.comTO: At what point during production did you realize that you had something beyond a 30-minute PBS documentary and when did the project become so ambitious?SJ:TO: Did you find that people weren?t interested in the project because it wasn?t ?dramatic? enough, per se?SJ:TO: When did it strike you that the finished product was something special?SJTO: I know the NCAA ruled that neither Arthur, William, nor their families could be compensated for the film because it would be an obvious violation. Do you feel like college athletes should be compensated in some way based on the amount of revenue they generate for these schools?SJ:

On the other hand, there?s absolutely no question that the NCAA completely exploits college athletes. If coaches can make millions of dollars and also get shoe contract money ? they get the shoe contract for the sneakers their players wear ? then something is seriously wrong. I?m not exactly sure what the best solution is, but I think there should be some modest easing of the difficulties these student-athletes face.