Is Chang Can Dunk based on a True Story? Chang Can Dunk Ending Explained
by Maivizhi A
Updated Mar 14, 2023
Is Chang Can Dunk based on a true story?
Although it is not based on a true story, the writer-director Jingyi Shao incorporated his own adolescent experiences into the script for 'Chang Can Dunk.' According to Shao, the concept for the film arose from a persistent image he had in his mind. In a discussion with ScreenRant, he explained that the idea originated from a scene in which Chang attempts to dunk in the snow, which he related to his own memories of practising basketball in adverse weather conditions. Shao then posed the question to himself: "Why does this kid have such a strong desire to dunk? What makes this so significant to him?" He subsequently sought to create an emotional connection with the audience by exploring the significance of something seemingly insignificant.
Chang Can Dunk Summary
The movie "Chang Can Dunk," written and directed by Jingyi Shao, follows an Asian-American high schooler named Chang who wants to become popular. Chang was once best friends with Matt, but Matt became popular due to his basketball skills, and Chang is now at constant odds with him. When Chang falls in love with Kristy, he senses that Matt could jeopardize their relationship, so he decides to challenge Matt to a basketball game. If Chang succeeds in dunking the ball, he’ll take Matt’s Kobe Bryant jersey and shave Matt’s head in public. If Chang fails to dunk, he’ll give up his collector’s edition Pokémon card. Chang initially fails to dunk but eventually succeeds by lowering the hoop's height. However, he later realises that he didn't have any confidence in himself and was preoccupied with impressing others instead of being satisfied with who he was. After a conversation with Deandre, Chang's mother recognises that Deandre is actually a good influence on Chang, and she should let him push Chang to be better. Chang apologises for his mistakes and reconciles with his mother, taking the first step on his journey to becoming a better person.
Chang Can Dunk Ending Explained?
Chang resumes his training with Deandre and makes amends with Chen, Bo, and Kristy, which is heartwarming to see, especially when Chang and Chen express their love for each other while completing Chang's father's unfinished construction work. Though it may be an old trope, the symbolism of characters dealing with heavy objects resonates with the audience. Chang's reunion with Bo is straightforward, and his mature conversation with Kristy highlights his growth, as he admits to seeing her as a prize to be won and not valuing their time together. By taking responsibility for his mistakes and making amends, Chang learns and sees Kristy as someone dear to his heart, even ending his enmity with Matt. With the weight lifted off his shoulders, Chang performs a successful slam dunk in a crucial basketball match.
Despite the predictable ending, "Chang Can Dunk" sets itself apart by making its protagonist a flawed character, whose mistakes result from being an Asian-American and his strained relationship with his mother. The film emphasizes the importance of accountability and personal growth, where minor mistakes do not define an individual if they take responsibility for their actions. Being honest with oneself and being a good person are more crucial than popularity. The film also follows the trend of finding a middle ground between an Asian mother and child, just like "Turning Red" and "Everything, Everywhere, All At Once." "Chang Can Dunk" is an excellent basketball movie and one of the best of the year, despite not being available on the big screen. Watch it as soon as possible at home!
Chang Can Dunk Review
The Disney movie "Chang Can Dunk" defies expectations in a positive way, showcasing the journey of a 5-foot-8-inch Chinese American high school basketball player named Chang, who makes a bet with his rival that he will be able to dunk by the end of the season. Despite the title spoiling this development, the film still manages to keep the audience engaged with its exploration of Chang's character growth, which is rooted in the film's belief that maturity cannot be achieved through shortcuts. Writer-director Jingyi Shao delivers an impressive debut that exemplifies the type of movies that Disney should be making: ones that prioritise good values while recognising that their heroes are imperfect.
In the film, Chang may even be considered the villain, as his obsessive and ultra-competitive personality causes him to alienate nearly everyone in his life except for his demanding single mother, Chen, portrayed excellently by Mardy Ma. However, the film does not reduce the character to a caricature but instead delves into the complex and flawed nature of Chang's personality.
The story begins with Chang feeling frustrated by the way others perceive him as a geek who divides his attention between basketball and the drumline. When a new girl named Kristy arrives, he becomes smitten but is peeved when his childhood friend Matt, the king of the jock squad, also takes an interest in her. Chang, who has been losing self-confidence due to Matt's chipping away at it, makes a bet with him that he can improve his vertical jump in 12 weeks.
The bet is recorded on camera phones by witnesses, which serves as a unique twist on the classic Disney setup. Chang's desire to dunk is motivated not only by his personal goal but also by his desire to get back at the popular kids who underestimated him. The hip-hop soundtrack adds to Chang's swagger, but the film also challenges whether this is a healthy way for him to deal with his insecurities.
The film draws on the director's own Chinese American heritage to add fresh dimensions to Chang's second-generation immigrant identity, showcasing how he tends to assume the worst about others' treatment of him, often reading racism into benign exchanges. However, the dynamic between Chang and Matt is not as simplistic as in many anti-bullying movies. Matt, despite being popular and handsome and coming from a wealthier family than Chang's, is not malicious, whereas there is a mean streak underlying the way that Chang wants to show him up. This is not lost on Kristy and Chang's tech-savvy sidekick, Bo, portrayed by Ben Wang.
How to watch Chang Can Dunk?
Chang Can Dunk is a must-see movie that guarantees an excellent viewing experience. The enthusiasm of the cast and crew is evident in every frame, ensuring that the movie flows seamlessly. If you're interested in watching it, you can exclusively find Chang Can Dunk on Disney+.Hotstar.
Is Chang Can Dunk based on a True Story - FAQs
No, the movie is not based on a true story, but the writer-director Jingyi Shao incorporated his own adolescent experiences into the script.
The protagonist is a Chinese American high schooler named Chang who wants to become popular.
Chang's desire to dunk is motivated not only by his personal goal but also by his desire to get back at the popular kids who underestimated him.
Yes, Chang learns the importance of accountability and personal growth, where minor mistakes do not define an individual if they take responsibility for their actions. He also learns the value of honesty and being a good person over popularity.
Yes, Chang reconciles with Matt, and they become friends again after their basketball game.