Warning: Full spoilers for Ballers: Season 1 follow...
As Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson expands his global media dominance, from movies, to (continued) pro-wrestling, to television, news of his collaboration with HBO produced much excitement. For years, Johnson knew he wanted to do something in TV, to crossover to the non-wrestling small screen, but he just didn't know the best way about it. First it was TNT's The Hero, which took advantage of Johnson's larger-than-life persona and attributes as a motivator. Then came Wake Up Call, which did the same.
HBO's Ballers also utilizes that aspect of Johnson's personality. It successfully piggybacks off the idea that the friendly, genial Johnson has a knack for making others feel better about themselves. In Ballers he'd play an ex-football star starting over as a financial advisor, ready to offer up wisdom and support to younger players so they wouldn't fall into the typical trappings of stardom. And, overall, Johnson remained an engaging presence. He's got charisma to spare. As does co-star Rob Corddry. Watching these two is no chore. And Ballers was at its best whenever they were on screen, whether paired or separate.
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As Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson expands his global media dominance, from movies, to (continued) pro-wrestling, to television, news of his collaboration with HBO produced much excitement. For years, Johnson knew he wanted to do something in TV, to crossover to the non-wrestling small screen, but he just didn't know the best way about it. First it was TNT's The Hero, which took advantage of Johnson's larger-than-life persona and attributes as a motivator. Then came Wake Up Call, which did the same.
HBO's Ballers also utilizes that aspect of Johnson's personality. It successfully piggybacks off the idea that the friendly, genial Johnson has a knack for making others feel better about themselves. In Ballers he'd play an ex-football star starting over as a financial advisor, ready to offer up wisdom and support to younger players so they wouldn't fall into the typical trappings of stardom. And, overall, Johnson remained an engaging presence. He's got charisma to spare. As does co-star Rob Corddry. Watching these two is no chore. And Ballers was at its best whenever they were on screen, whether paired or separate.
Continue reading…
Continue reading...