The Basket (film)

The Basket is a 1999 American coming-of-age drama film directed by Robert Cary. The film stars Peter Coyote, Karen Allen, and Amber Benson.

The story is set in post-World War I Germany and focuses on the arrival of an American boy, Matthew, at a German boarding school. Matthew, orphaned during the war, is placed at the school by his American guardian. The film explores themes of prejudice, friendship, and healing through the relationship that develops between Matthew and a deaf German boy named Franz. The boys communicate through a shared love of basketball, which becomes a unifying force in a community still grappling with the aftermath of the war and lingering animosity towards Americans.

The film received generally positive reviews, with praise directed at its sensitive portrayal of the characters and its exploration of complex themes. It is noted for its focus on the power of sport to transcend cultural and linguistic barriers.