Why It Ranks
Semi-Pro is a fun, minor Ferrell sports comedy elevated by its ABA setting and Woody Harrelson's straight-man performance. The bear-wrestling scene is unforgettable. André Benjamin brings unexpected depth to a comedy role.
The Film
Semi-Pro is Will Ferrell's love letter to the 1970s ABA — the flashy, chaotic rival to the NBA that featured red-white-and-blue basketballs and promotions involving bears. Ferrell plays Jackie Moon, an owner-player-promoter who must win enough games to qualify for the NBA merger. It is not Ferrell's best film, but his commitment to the absurdity and the period detail make it consistently entertaining.
Fun Facts
The ABA was a real basketball league that merged with the NBA in 1976.
A real bear was used in filming, with extensive safety precautions.
Will Ferrell actually made several of his basketball shots during filming.
André Benjamin (André 3000 of Outkast) demonstrated real basketball skills on set.
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