Edition 24: 1–9 August, 2025

Focus America

Hoop Dreams

United States
1994 — 171' / Color

1

Synopsis

The film follows William Gates and Arthur Agee, two African-American teenagers who are recruited by a scout from St. Joseph High School in Westchester, Illinois, a predominantly white high school with an outstanding basketball program, whose alumni include NBA great Isiah Thomas. Agee and Gates are both from poor, African-American neighbourhoods in Chicago, Illinois. Gates lived in Cabrini–Green while Agee and his family resided in West Garfield Park.

Official Trailer

Directors' Biography

Steve James was born in Hampton, Virginia, USA. His affiliation with Kartemquin began in 1987 with the start of production of Hoop Dreams, for which he served as director, producer, and co-editor. He has since then become one of the most acclaimed documentary makers of his generation, with noted works being Stevie, The New Americans, The War Tapes, At the Death House Door, and The Interrupters. He is married to Judy James.

Directors

Steve James

Producers

Frederick Marx

Peter Gilbert

Steve James

Cinematographers

Peter Gilbert

Editors

Frederick Marx

Steve James

William Haugse

Music

Adam Singer

Tom Yore

Contact

Kartemquin Films
Tim Horsburgh
1901 W. Wellington
Chicago, IL 60657, USA
+1 773 472-4366
[email protected]