Watch The Year of the Yao

The Year of the Yao is a documentary film from 2004 that follows the journey of Chinese basketball star Yao Ming as he enters the NBA. The film showcases the challenges and triumphs that Yao and his team faced during his rookie season with the Houston Rockets. The movie begins with footage of Yao playing in China and the initial reactions to his 7'6" height and skill on the court. It then moves to Yao's arrival in Houston, where he is greeted by throngs of fans and media. The film highlights the cultural differences that Yao encounters, including language barriers and the struggle to adapt to life in a new country.

As Yao prepares for his first season in the NBA, the film delves into the politics surrounding his selection by the Houston Rockets. There were concerns that the Rockets were only interested in him for his marketability in China, rather than his basketball skills. However, Yao proves to be a valuable asset to the team, both on and off the court.

The film features interviews with Yao, his family, teammates, and coaches, as well as footage from games and practices. We see Yao's struggles with the physicality of the NBA game and his communication barriers with his teammates. However, we also see his hard work paying off as he becomes a key player for the Rockets.

One of the most memorable moments in the film is Yao's first match-up against Shaquille O'Neal, one of the biggest stars in the NBA at the time. The film builds up to this face-off, and the resulting game is a thrilling display of Yao's talent and O'Neal's strength. The two players have a contentious but ultimately respectful relationship, as evidenced in interviews with both of them.

The Year of the Yao also touches on the cultural impact that Yao had in the United States and China. In the U.S., he became a trailblazer for Asian-American athletes and helped to popularize basketball in China. In China, he became a national hero and a role model for young basketball players.

The film's pacing is excellent, with the right balance of games, practices, and personal moments. The cinematography is also top-notch, showcasing the excitement and energy of the NBA games and the beauty of Yao's hometown in China. The score and soundtrack are also well-crafted, adding to the emotional impact of the film.

Overall, The Year of the Yao is a must-watch documentary for basketball fans and anyone interested in the cultural exchange between China and the United States. It explores themes of identity, communication, and perseverance, all through the lens of one of the most iconic NBA players of all time.

The Year of the Yao is a 2004 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 28 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.2 and a MetaScore of 62.