Definition of irony: River Phoenix was supposed to star in "The Basketball Diaries," a loose adaptation of Jim Carrol's book, which was an actual diary of his drug life. Well, before shooting could start Phoenix overdosed on drugs and died. Replacing him was Leonardo DiCaprio, who would later sign to play Dirk Diggler in "Boogie Nights." DiCaprio would eventually drop out of this role, to be replaced by his "Basketball Diaries" co-star Mark Walhberg, while he played Jack Dawson in "Titanic."
And you thought six degrees of Kevin Bacon was a mess.
Nevertheless, "The Basketball Diaries" is a solid film, and seeing it in the widescreen format on DVD really brings to life the film's beauty. Though the film has very little to do with Carrol's actual "Basketball Diaries," the film captures the spirit of the book quite nicely.
Bonuses on the DVD include the film trailer (the cop out when the studio can think of nothing else to add to the DVD), an anti-drug message (bet River was wishing he'd seen that before he overdosed) and interviews with the cast and director.
The best part of this DVD is watching DiCaprio explain why the filmmakers had to alter the diaries in order to make the film work. You'll laugh so hard you'll want to watch it again.
If you're one of those people who think actors and actresses are above the common man, smarter and more refined, watch this and come back to reality.
Even if you don't watch the bonus material, however, there is much enjoyment to be taken from the film itself.
01-22-99
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