“Ball” is a fine example of a movie “ripped from today’s headlines.” In six intense minutes, it tells the story of a young Nigerian kid who dreams of playing basketball. Starting out as a total novice, the boy comes to understand the game by studying the moves off Kobe Bryant. Then, when Bryant dies, the protagonist learns a lesson that’s far more important than how to hit long threes, dribble, and defend the basket. “Ball” was produced by The Critics, an indie company that is gaining worldwide attention for  its low-budget, mobile-shot movies.

While “Ball” was made on a shoestring budget, the filmmakers have master the key elements of cinematic storytelling such as low-angle shots, pull-focus, and action close-ups.

If you’d like to know more about The Critics, MobileMovieMaking previously showcased their first music video “Unbreakable.”  You can also follow them on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For a grassroots assessment of this inventive filmmaking cooperatives, check out the YouTube comments on Ball. If you’re enthusiastic about their work, you can support their future productions by contributing via Patreon.

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The Editors have chosen “Ball” as the Mobile Movie of the Week.