Jim Podhoretz Movies

The doomsday warning of legendary prophet Nostradamus is placed in a terrifyingly modern context as documentary filmmakers speculate just what will happen on that fateful date of December 21, 2012. Nostradamus wasn't the only prophet to call attention to this oft-debated date; the ancient Mayans too predicted that the planet would undergo a profound transformation in the final days of the year 2012. But what exactly does fate have in store for mankind on the day many call the end? Will we be wiped out by a massive comet crashing into Earth, fall victim to a global environmental disaster, or perhaps fall victim to our own destructive technology in an Armageddon-like clash of civilizations? Perhaps it won't be anything destructive at all, but a kind of subtle transformation in consciousness. Whatever may come when the calendars turn to December 21, 2012, one thing is for certain: People around the globe will be watching the skies in tense anticipation of something truly profound. ~ Jason Buchanan, Rovi

NBA superstars like Shaquille O'Neal, Vince Carter, Allen Iverson, and Kobe Bryant are just a few of the game's hottest players. This video offers a look at the spectacular plays these intense competitors and some of their fellow future NBA legends make on a regular basis. Included is exclusive coverage of the 2000 Schick Rookie Challenge and the NBA.com Slam-Dunk Contest. Take a wild ride through this highlight reel of exciting NBA action.

~ Sarah Block, Rovi

This NBA sponsored program features the Chicago Bull's 1997 unforgettable season which eventually culminated in winning the NBA championship. Full of season highlights and player and coach interviews. ~ Laura Mahnken, Rovi

This sports documentary examines the life and basketball career of Hakeem Olajuwon. The film briefly touches on Olajuwon's Nigerian heritage and then moves on to his recruitment and eventual signing to play basketball at the University of Houston. Olajuwon was an unusual recruit in that he had hardly ever played basketball until he reached college, but being over 7 feet tallt helped him eventually become one of the best centers to ever play the college game. After college, Olajuwon was drafted into the NBA, spending his career with the Houston Rockets, winning two championships and several personal awards. The film mainly consists of clips of Olajuwon's play and commentary from teammates, other players, coaches and sports writers. ~ Ed Atkinson, Rovi

This is the story of one of basketball's biggest superstars, Shaquille O'Neal. Born in Newark, NJ, this 7'1'', 300-pound, size-22 shoe basketball star has had an impressive college and professional career. This documentary includes rare footage, O'Neal's own music, and commentary from the NBA star; it examines his rise as a basketball player in a San Antonio high school, his outstanding college performance at Louisiana State University, and his professional years in the NBA with the Los Angeles Lakers. This man has also made his mark with movie roles, television performances, and commercials. This is a rare, marvelous video of one talented man's exceptional career, a man who has received admiration from both peers and fans. ~ Forrest Spencer, Rovi

This video chronicles the impressive career of the accomplished, though often outlandish, basketball star Charles Barkely. During the 1980s and 1990s, Barkely played for such pro teams as the Philadelphia 76ers, the Phoenix Suns and the Houston Rockets. Though he has angered many with statements he now claims were just misquoted comments, Barkely was greatly respected for his game-playing prowess. Off the court, he earned the nickname of "Sir Charles" after noting his interest in possibly entering politics and then discussing his ambitions with one or more high-profile politicians. Watch and learn more about this talented yet rather volatile NBA player. ~ Elizabeth Smith, Rovi

A behind-the-scenes look at the Chicago Bulls' historic run to a third straight NBA title. Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen star in this action-packed look at their playoff run. Watch as they steamroll past Atlanta, Cleveland, and New York on their way to defeating Charles Barkley and the Phoenix Suns for the title. Exclusive interviews and exciting on-the-court action are highlights of this video collage that documents the Bulls and their quest to be only the third team in NBA history to win three straight titles.
~ Sarah Block, Rovi

This video examines the life and basketball career of Larry Bird. Starting with an introduction to his childhood in Indiana, the film shows how Bird turned to basketball to help overcome difficulties. After starring on his high school team Bird was recruited to play at the Indiana University, but soon transferred to Indiana State, where he led the team to an appearance in an NCAA championship game. Though ISU lost the game to a Magic Johnson led Michigan State, Bird established himself as one of the great NBA players. After joining the Boston Celtics, Bird (along with Magic Johnson from the LA Lakers) helped revitalize the faltering pro basketball league with intense play that led to 3 MVP awards and several championship victories. Most of the video is made up of footage of Bird's games and great shots. It also features interviews with teammates, fellow players, coaches and sports writers. ~ Ed Atkinson, Rovi

The history of the New York Knicks is covered in this video. Special emphasis is on the championship seasons of 1970 and 1973 and a glimpse of the franchise's future. ~ Rovi