Giannis: The Marvelous Journey 2024 Movie Review

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s extraordinary journey, from a basketball-obsessed teenager in Greece to a two-time MVP in the NBA, has captivated fans worldwide. Now, his narrative takes on a fresh perspective with the release of the documentary “Giannis: The Marvelous Journey,” directed by Kristen Lappas.

While Giannis’ remarkable tale has been portrayed in various forms, including the movie “Rise,” this documentary promises a unique angle by directly incorporating insights from Giannis and his family. It delves into the Antetokounmpo family’s immigrant experience in Greece, shedding light on their challenges and how basketball served as a bridge to their new home.

Through interviews with Giannis’ mother, brothers, and fiancée, audiences gain a deeper understanding of the family dynamics and the profound bond they share. Lappas, the director, expressed her anticipation for unexpected revelations from the family’s perspective, which indeed materialized during the filming process.

Giannis himself opens up about personal matters, such as the untimely passing of his father in 2017, revealing a side of him that the public has seldom seen. Lappas commends his introspective nature and acknowledges the significance of his reflections on his father’s death, a topic he has rarely discussed before.

Upon completing the documentary, Lappas admits to feeling apprehensive about presenting it to Giannis and his family in Milwaukee. However, the experience turned out to be profoundly rewarding as she witnessed their emotional reaction to reliving their journey on screen.

In the end, the documentary not only celebrates Giannis’ achievements on the court but also provides a touching portrayal of the Antetokounmpo family’s resilience, unity, and the transformative power of basketball in their lives.