New Netflix sports doc spotlights one of NBA’s biggest icons
Another top-notch Netflix sports documentary, this time spotlighting NBA legend Bill Russell: Bill Russell: The Legend is the latest in a string of Netflix sports documentaries focusing on legends of US basketball — and this one is worthy of its name and of its 3.5 hour runtime. Directed by Sam Pollard (known for his film MLK/FBI), and narrated by Corey Stoll, the two-part documentary captures the basketball icon’s unparalleled run on court — where he ended up snagging a record 11 titles in his 13-year career — alongside his struggles with racism and activism off-court. With a treasure trove of archival game footage and interviews with some of Russell’s contemporaries, the documentary balances really well between the basketball star’s impact on the court during his time with the Boston Celtics, and his support of the civil rights’ movement cause in the US. The film also documents his historic rivalry (and later, reconciliation) with Wilt Chamberlain — that alone is reason enough for basketball fans to tune in.
WHERE TO STREAM IT- Netflix.