Set in the beautiful Navajo Nation, Rez Ball shares the inspiring story of the Chuska Warriors basketball team in their quest for championship glory after a devastating loss. Executive produced by LeBron James.

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Special Presentations

Rez Ball

Sydney Freeland

With her third feature film, director and co-writer Sydney Freeland shares a deeply inspiring and energetic account of overcoming adversity and finding one’s purpose. Based on a remarkable true story and set in the sprawling and beautiful Navajo Nation, Rez Ball follows one unforgettable season in the lives of the Chuska Warriors boys’ basketball team.

Fronted by the charismatic local hero Nataanii Jackson (Kusem Goodwind), the team is searching for a way out of its current losing streak, which frustrated community members blame on Coach Hobbs (Jessica Matten), herself a former basketball star. But Nataanii is struggling with the tragic deaths of his mother and sister and, after a devastating turn of events results in his passing, the team is left even more bereft and rudderless. The heir apparent to lead the team is Nataanii’s best friend, Jimmy Holiday (Kauchani Bratt), whose own family and financial struggles threaten to derail his hoop dreams.

As their slump continues, Hobbs, Jimmy, and the rest of the team must find a new path forward. Inspired by their language and culture, they develop a uniquely Navajo twist to playing basketball — which they dub “Rez Ball” — leading to an unexpected win streak that keeps alive their hopes of competing for the state championships.

With a tender and assured lens, Freeland explores complex and sensitive topics with grace and care as she draws out impressive performances from her cast, including a radiant Bratt in his debut performance. The film is executive produced by NBA superstar LeBron James and co-written by Reservation Dogs creator Sterlin Harjo.

JASON RYLE

Content advisory: themes of suicide; mature themes

Screenings

Sun Sep 08

Royal Alexandra Theatre

Regular
Mon Sep 09

TIFF Lightbox 3

P & I
Mon Sep 09

TIFF Lightbox 2

Regular
Thu Sep 12

TIFF Lightbox 2

P & I
Fri Sep 13

TIFF Lightbox 1

Regular
Sun Sep 15

TIFF Lightbox 1

Regular