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There is doubt that Jackie Moon’s (Will Ferrel) basketball team Flint Michigan Tropics would stay on in the ABA League, in view of the planned merging of the ABA with NBA. Moon cannot take the merging easily because this means his team not only needs to prove their worth in their games but also needs to show off to the league’s hard court followers. The problem is Moon's team is the least performing one in the ABA league and is not likely to make it when ABA merges with NBA. The plan initially demoralizes the team especially Moon, but eventually he starts thinking of ways to counter the threat of being eliminated. The team mates work together and cooperate especially when asked to do unconventional tricks to attract followers and also when Woody Harrelson’s character temporarily takes over the coaching job from Moon. Banking on his chart-hit song "Love me Sexy", Moon is confident to gain a public following and with the renewed game plan to make it to the hard court. Will these combined techniques work for their purpose to enter the NBA?
"Semi-Pro" is another movie that showcases Ferrel's brand of comedy which is not a hard-sell. Acting wise, other than Ferrel not much is shown by the actors in the film. The story is predictable, but sub-plots offer variations. The film has good cinematic effects especially in the game scenes. Music plays a major part in providing entertainment, though, it is a bit loud for the most part. The production design for some reason hardly establishes the era of the '70s. Overall, the film is technically a bit below the average.
Though a shallow comedy, the film nevertheless can be mined for some values. The movie shows that determination is the key to everything that people want to achieve in any field of their interest and passion. More importantly in a team situation, cooperation, openness and trust are necessary. The team members are usually cool in their defeat and get united in the effort to encourage a demoralized leader. In the end, the film shows how a leader can humble himself and subject himself to the coaching of a mere member in recognition of the common good for the team. The loyalty of a team member is also tested during difficult times but he chooses to be where his heart belongs. The film in general has a positive message, however, there is frequent use of vulgar language and exposure of women in skimpy attire.
(Date Reviewed: 3 April 2008)
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