Just Wright (2010) Movie Review: A Heartwarming Hoops Romance
- Joao Nsita
- Mar 13, 2025
- 5 min read
Released in 2010, Just Wright is a feel-good romantic comedy that blends the thrill of basketball with the warmth of an unlikely love story. Directed by Sanaa Hamri, this charming film stars Queen Latifah as Leslie Wright, a down-to-earth physical therapist, and Common as Scott McKnight, an NBA star on the mend. With its winning leads and a refreshing twist on the sports-romance trope, Just Wright delivers a slam dunk of heart and humor. Here’s why this underrated gem deserves a spot in your movie lineup.
Plot and Performances: From the Bench to the Heart
The story begins when Leslie, a lifelong Nets fan, meets Scott at a gas station and scores an invite to his birthday party. When Scott suffers a career-threatening knee injury, Leslie steps in as his physical therapist, helping him rebuild his game—and unexpectedly, his spirit. Meanwhile, Leslie’s glamorous cousin Morgan (Paula Patton) vies for Scott’s affection, setting up a classic love triangle. But it’s Leslie’s quiet strength and authenticity that win him over, proving true love doesn’t need flash.
Queen Latifah is the film’s soul, bringing Leslie to life with warmth, wit, and relatability—her every smile radiates genuine goodness. Common, in a rare leading role, surprises with his laid-back charisma and vulnerability, making Scott more than just a jock archetype. Their chemistry feels effortless, grounded in mutual respect rather than forced sparks. Patton’s Morgan adds a touch of diva drama, while cameos from NBA stars like Dwight Howard and Dwyane Wade lend authenticity to the sports vibe.
Strengths and Flaws: A Solid Play with Predictable Moves
Just Wright shines in its simplicity. The romance builds slowly and organically—Leslie and Scott’s banter over pizza or rehab sessions feels real, not contrived. At 1 hour and 40 minutes, it’s paced just right, balancing sports montages with tender moments. The film’s message about inner worth over outward glamour is subtly uplifting, and the basketball scenes—shot with energy—keep the hoops fans engaged.
That said, the plot doesn’t stray far from rom-com territory. The love triangle resolves predictably, and Morgan’s gold-digger arc feels one-note. Some side characters—like Leslie’s friend Janice (Pam Grier)—are underused, leaving the story a bit thin beyond the leads. Still, Latifah and Common’s charm smooths over these bumps, keeping the film endearing.
Visuals and Direction: Courtside Cool
Sanaa Hamri’s direction gives Just Wright a polished yet cozy feel. The New Jersey Nets’ world—stadiums, training rooms, and suburban homes—looks vibrant and lived-in, with a soundtrack featuring Alicia Keys and John Legend adding soulful flair. The rehab sequences are shot with care, highlighting Leslie’s skill and Scott’s grit without over-glamorizing the process. It’s a grounded aesthetic that suits the story’s heart.
Conclusion: A Rom-Com That Scores
Just Wright is a sweet, unpretentious winner—a rom-com that pairs sports and love with a gentle touch. Queen Latifah and Common’s authentic chemistry, combined with a story of healing and self-worth, make it a standout in the genre. It’s not revolutionary, but it doesn’t aim to be; this is comfort viewing at its best, perfect for fans of hoops, romance, or both. Underrated and uplifting, Just Wright proves that sometimes the right love comes from the most unexpected plays. Add it to your watchlist for a dose of feel-good magic.
10 FAQs About Just Wright (2010)
What is Just Wright about?
It follows Leslie, a physical therapist, who helps injured NBA star Scott recover while falling for him.
Who stars in Just Wright?
Queen Latifah plays Leslie, Common is Scott, with Paula Patton as Morgan and Pam Grier in a supporting role.
What’s the sports element in the film?
It centers on basketball, with Scott’s NBA career and recovery driving the plot.
Is there a love triangle in Just Wright?
Yes, Leslie competes with her cousin Morgan for Scott’s affection.
Did Just Wright feature real NBA players?
Yes, cameos from Dwight Howard, Dwyane Wade, and others add authenticity.
Who directed Just Wright?
Sanaa Hamri, known for Something New, directed the film.
How long is Just Wright?
It runs for 1 hour and 40 minutes, keeping its story concise and engaging.
What’s a standout feature of the movie?
The natural chemistry between Queen Latifah and Common anchors the romance.
Did Just Wright win any awards?
No major wins, but it earned praise for its leads and charm.
Why is it considered underrated?
Despite its strong performances, it didn’t get the mainstream hype of bigger rom-coms.
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Explore These External Links FOR ANY FILMS INCLUDING ROM COMS!
🎥 Your Film Critic HubDive into the world of movie reviews and ratings! With its iconic Tomatometer, Rotten Tomatoes helps you quickly determine if a film is a "fresh" masterpiece or a "rotten" flop.
🎬 The Ultimate Entertainment DatabaseThe Internet Movie Database (IMDb) is a treasure trove of information. Discover cast lists, trailers, trivia, and fan reviews for your favorite movies and TV shows.
⭐ Critic Scores at a GlanceMetacritic aggregates reviews from top publications to give you a clear, weighted score—helping you decide if a movie is worth your time.
📚 Social Networking for CinephilesLog the movies you watch, write reviews, and connect with fellow film enthusiasts. Letterboxd is the ultimate platform for movie buffs to share their passion.
🎯 Tailored Film RecommendationsCriticker uses a unique scoring system to suggest movies you'll love, based on your personal ratings and preferences.
🔍 The Review AggregatorExplore the web’s largest collection of movie reviews. Search for any title and access critiques from across the internet, all in one place.
🎥 The Legacy of a LegendCelebrate the legacy of Roger Ebert. Discover classic reviews, current film critiques, and thought-provoking articles about the deeper meanings of cinema.
🎞️ In-Depth Film AnalysisEnjoy thoughtful analysis and insightful features on the art and craft of filmmaking from one of the most respected film journals.
📰 Latest Film News & ReviewsStay updated with news, reviews, and opinion pieces. The Guardian’s film section offers trusted insights on movies from around the world.
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