The Hooping Life

The Hooping Life is an inspirational documentary film from 2014 that follows the lives of hoopers, a unique subculture of basketball enthusiasts who practice their freestyle basketball tricks with hula hoops. This film is narrated by basketball legend, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and it stars a diverse cast of hooping champions from all around the world, including Jonathan Livingston Baxter, Jeffrey Butler, and Karis.

The movie starts by highlighting the origins of hooping and showing archival footage of streetball pioneers, such as Earl "The Goat" Manigault and Connie Hawkins. The film then transitions to the modern-day hooping culture, where we meet the main characters and follow them on their journey towards becoming professional hoopers.

Jonathan Livingston Baxter is one of the main protagonists in the film, and he is a charismatic and passionate hooper from New York. We see him perform his incredible acrobatic stunts, flipping and spinning his hula hoop through the air with grace and precision. The film shows us his struggles and triumphs in his quest to become a successful hooper, including his battles with injuries and his determination to compete in the World Hoop Championships.

Jeffrey Butler, another protagonist in the movie, is a promising young hooper from Oakland, California. We learn about his upbringing and how his family introduced him to hooping as a child. He has a natural talent for the sport, and we watch him perform jaw-dropping tricks with ease. However, the film shows us the challenges he faces as a young, African-American man in a sport dominated by white athletes.

Karis, the only female protagonist in the movie, is a passionate hooper from England who loves to experiment with new tricks and styles. We see her unique and creative approach to hooping, which has earned her a loyal following on social media. The film highlights her journey towards becoming a professional hooper and her struggles with balancing her passion for hooping with her academic studies.

Throughout the film, we learn about the history and culture of hooping, including its influence on music, fashion, and street culture. The movie showcases the different styles of hooping around the world, from the fast-paced and athletic style of New York to the more relaxed and rhythmic style of California.

The Hooping Life is not just a film about basketball tricks; it's a film about passion, determination, and the power of sports to bring people together. The documentary shows us the sense of community and friendship that exists within the hooping culture, emphasizing that hooping is not just a sport but a way of life.

Overall, The Hooping Life is an entertaining and inspiring film that showcases the beauty and artistry of hooping. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in basketball, street culture, or sports in general. The film's message of passion and perseverance is universal, and it will leave you feeling motivated and inspired to follow your dreams, whatever they may be.