Celtics/Lakers: Best of Enemies (Trailer)
Celtics/Lakers: Best of Enemies chronicles one of the most iconic rivalries in NBA history. This five-hour film, split into three parts, takes viewers on a journey through the intense competition between the Boston Celtics and the Los Angeles Lakers, spanning several decades of basketball excellence.
The documentary begins by examining the roots of the rivalry in the 1950s and 1960s, a period dominated by the Celtics. During this era, the Lakers won five championships but faced heartbreak in all seven of their NBA Finals matchups against Boston. However, the heart of the story lies in the 1980s, a golden age for both franchises that saw them combine for eight titles and 13 NBA Finals appearances, including three head-to-head battles for the championship.
What sets the film apart is its unique narrative approach, featuring two distinct voices to represent each team’s perspective. Donnie Wahlberg, a Boston native and lifelong Celtics fan, narrates the sections focused on the green and white. On the other side, Ice Cube, who grew up in South Central Los Angeles rooting for the purple and gold, provides the Lakers’ point of view. This dual narration adds depth and authenticity to the storytelling, offering viewers a chance to experience the rivalry from both sides.
The documentary features an impressive roster of interviewees, including some of the greatest players to ever grace the hardwood. From the Lakers, viewers hear from Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Jamaal Wilkes, Byron Scott, James Worthy, Kurt Rambis, and Bob McAdoo. The Celtics are represented by legends such as Bill Russell, Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, Danny Ainge, Cedric Maxwell, M.L. Carr, and Quinn Buckner. It also includes insights from key figures behind the scenes, like longtime Lakers general manager Jerry West and former coaches Paul Westhead, Pat Riley, and K.C. Jones.
Through these interviews and archival footage, the film paints a vivid picture of the rivalry’s impact on the NBA and popular culture. It highlights how the contrasting styles and personalities of players like Magic Johnson and Larry Bird captivated audiences and revitalized interest in professional basketball. It also touches on the broader societal context, examining how the rivalry reflected and sometimes transcended the cultural differences between Boston and Los Angeles.
The documentary goes beyond just recounting game statistics and championship victories. It dives into the personal stories and motivations of the players, coaches, and fans involved in this legendary feud. Viewers gain insight into the intense pressure, the thrill of victory, and the agony of defeat that defined this era of NBA basketball. It also examines how the rivalry evolved over time, from the fierce competition of the 1980s to its legacy in the modern NBA.