Film Lens
The film follows Aswad Thomas, who reflects on his life after being shot just weeks before he was set to leave for a basketball contract in Europe. He recounts his childhood dreams of becoming a professional basketball player and the challenges he faced growing up in a single-parent home during the 1980s, where violence affected his family. His father and brother were both shot, and his cousin is now paralyzed, illustrating the cycle of violence in his community.
After the shooting, Thomas describes the physical and emotional struggles he faced, including learning to walk again and grappling with anger towards those who harmed him. He ultimately finds a new purpose in life, realizing that retaliation only perpetuates the cycle of violence. The film captures his journey of recovery and transformation, emphasizing the role of basketball as an outlet for hope and opportunity.
Why Watch
- •Follow Aswad's journey from shooting to recovery.
- •See how basketball became a path to opportunity.
- •Meet a family affected by violence and endurance.
Did You Know
•Aswad Thomas wanted to be a professional basketball player since age six.
•His father was shot in the 1980s, and his second oldest brother was shot in the 90s.
•Thomas was shot just three weeks before leaving for a basketball contract in Europe.
•He suffered from collapsed lungs and internal bleeding after the shooting.
Perfect For
Basketball fansAdvocates for social changeSurvivors of violence