Watch Kobe Doin' Work
- 2009
- 1 Season
-
6.6 (1,565)
Kobe Doin' Work is a unique and captivating documentary produced by Spike Lee that premiered on ESPN on May 16, 2009. The documentary follows the day-to-day routine of one of the best players ever to grace a basketball court, Kobe Bryant. The film gives an insider's view of game-day preparation in the NBA and is presented almost entirely from Kobe's own perspective.
What makes Kobe Doin' Work so fascinating is that it's the polar opposite of conventional ‘talking head’ documentaries. Rather than having interviews, narration or historical footage to explain events or evaluate Kobe's career, the film solely revolves around Kobe Bryant in a present-tense perspective during a regular-season game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the San Antonio Spurs.
The footage for the documentary was shot in 2008 from several different angles using multiple cameras. As a result, the viewers get a unique and intimate look at how Kobe prepares for the game, how he communicates with his teammates, and how he is laser-focused on victory.
One of the noteworthy features of this documentary is the access that Spike Lee was granted as part of filming. He was given unique access to both on and off-court elements of Kobe's daily routine, such as Kobe's workout routine, and the film crew lugged their cameras and audio equipment through the Staples Center to film Kobe's every move.
The beauty of this documentary is in its simplicity, as the footage captures the energy, adrenaline, and tension of a basketball player going through the motions of a critical game. The documentary effectively captures the in-game experience, bringing people behind the bench and on the court, giving viewers the feeling of being part of it all.
Kobe Doin' Work also showcases how Kobe's psyche and his analytical approach to the game help him stay sharp and focused throughout the game. Through his narration, we learn how he analyses his opponents' on-court movements, making quick, informed decisions based on their movements.
Kobe's interaction with his teammates is also shown throughout the game, with Lamar Odom and others regularly shown, displaying their teamwork and camaraderie. The documentary's director, Spike Lee, does an excellent job capturing the little moments on and off the court, from Kobe's all-business approach to pre-game warm-ups, to Kobe's friendly ribbing of his teammates on the bench during game breaks.
In a particularly captivating moment of the documentary, Kobe is seen arguing with the referee about a foul call that he believed was unwarranted. His mission is an unwavering one, and this scene is an excellent example of his competitive nature. He's determined not to give any quarter and fights for every point and every possible edge.
Overall, Kobe Doin' Work transcends a simple sports story by showing viewers what it takes to be one of the greatest basketball players of all time. It’s a comprehensive and insightful look at the dedication, hard work, and pressure that goes into being an NBA player, particularly when one is an iconic figure like Kobe Bryant.
In conclusion, Kobe Doin' Work is a must-watch documentary for basketball fans, particularly those who are fans of Kobe Bryant. The access granted, the behind-the-scenes look into Bryant's daily routine, his mental approach to the game, and his interactions with his teammates, bring a new level of understanding to the NBA that fans have never seen before. Kobe Bryant’s dedication to basketball is inspiring, and this documentary captures it perfectly.