Many Netflix Original movies come and go, falling under the radar to their bigger, more marquee titles that constantly appear in your recommended feed. Yet, every once in a while, a movie offers an infectious and heartfelt experience that starts to beat the algorithm as fans tune in through word of mouth or curiosity. Rez Ball is certainly a title with that buzz, and it has proven itself deserved with an insightful cultural exploration tied to an engaging underdog story.

Rez Ball is certainly the coming-of-age sports drama you must watch right now. We will look closer at what makes the film stand out in the genre and how its exploration of complex themes approached with genuine sincerity has made it a welcome addition to the Netflix Original catalog.

Rez Ball Is an Inspirational Sports Drama

Inspired by the real-life events surrounding the Chinle High School Wildcats of Arizona, as documented in Michael Powell’s book Canyon Dreams: A Basketball Season on the Navajo Nation 15, Rez Ball follows the fictional team of the Chuska Warriors of the Navajo Nation in New Mexico. The movie follows their efforts to make State Champions, but their drive is challenged after the suicide of their star player, Nataanii Jackson, devastates the team and community. Rez Ball mixes sports drama with a poignant exploration of cultural resilience through solid community bonds.

Sydney Freeland, a member of the Navajo Nation, directed Rez Ball. Freeland has worked on multiple TV series, but her most notable work in relation to Rez Ball includes having directed two episodes of the acclaimed comedy/drama Reservation Dogs and her 2014 debut feature film Drunktown’s Finest, which offered an earnest view of life on the Reserve. The movie stars a primarily indigenous cast of up-and-comers like Kauchani Bratt and Devin Sampson-Craig, along with established names including Jessica Matten (Dark Winds, Frontier) and Amber Midthunder (Prey), to name a few.

The Importance of Rez Ball’s Themes

At its heart, Rez Ball is a sports underdog story with all the elements one would want of the genre: overcoming odds, working together, and inspirational messaging about teamwork. Yet Rez Ball is a resounding success because of its more profound and authentic exploration of themes related to the Indigenous community. The series deals with issues related to mental health, substance addiction, intergenerational trauma, and the limited support often offered to reserves.

However, and just as importantly, the movie focuses on the bonds and strength that can come out of these communities, showing resilience in the face of tragedy and a push to find recognition outside the often repressive Reserve system. Ultimately, Rez Ball shows the challenges faced by the Indigenous community but celebrates their strengths and ability to overcome them in equal measure. This is also backed by phenomenal performances from a largely Indigenous cast that further adds to the authenticity of the underdog story.

Anyone going in should be aware of the nuanced approach to relevant challenges that have long-faced the Indigenous community after reading Michael Powell’s Canyon Dreams: A Basketball Season on the Navajo Nation 15, the movie’s inspiration. The novel paints the empathetic plight of those on the reserve and their struggles and strengths in the same vein as Rez Ball. Fans of Rez Ball should read the novel the film is based on and vice versa.

Why You Should Watch Rez Ball

There is more than enough cultural value and insight to appreciate what Sydney Freeland and the cast of Rez Ball were able to craft in their Netflix Original movie. Those who know little about what life on the Reserve can entail, its challenges, and its cultural strengths will undoubtedly feel like they have learned something of value. Yet, this connection is not required to enjoy the sports drama and underdog story of Rez Ball, as its themes of redemption and strength are universal in their appeal.

Rez Ball also offers an inspiring story based on real events that could appeal to younger and mature audiences. Anyone interested in sports has felt the pressures of competition and the joy of camaraderie in the pursuit of excellence. You can watch the underdog sports drama for yourself, as Rez Ball is currently streaming on Netflix.