Is Rise Movie True Story? Rise Ending Explained, Plot, Cast and More
by Janani
Updated Jul 21, 2023
Rise (2022 Movie)
"Rise, a gripping biographical sports drama film from 2022, was helmed by director Akin Omotoso and brought to life by the talented screenwriter Arash Amel. The movie draws its inspiration from the story of three Nigerian-Greek brothers named Giannis, Thanasis, and Kostas Antetokounmpo.
These young siblings embark on a life-changing journey, leaving their homeland to settle in the United States. As fate would have it, they ultimately achieve unprecedented fame and success within the highly competitive realm of the National Basketball Association (NBA).
In this compelling cinematic masterpiece, the lead roles are brilliantly portrayed by three gifted newcomers - Uche Agada, Ral Agada, and Jaden Osimuwa - who skillfully depict the trials and triumphs of the Antetokounmpo brothers' journey. Accompanying them in the film are talented actors Elijah Shomanke, Yetide Badaki, and Dayo Okeniyi, who expertly bring to life the roles of supporting family members, further enhancing the emotional depth of the narrative.
Backed by the esteemed production house, Walt Disney Pictures, Rise was released as an exclusive Disney+ original film on June 24, 2022. The film garnered widespread acclaim from critics, who praised its compelling storytelling, powerful performances, and heartwarming portrayal of the Antetokounmpo brothers' inspiring rise to stardom.
With its touching themes of determination, resilience, and family bonds, Rise has left a lasting impression on audiences worldwide, inspiring and touching the hearts of many."
Is Rise Movie True Story?
Yes, Rise movie is a true story. "Rise" portrays the true-life tale of the Antetokounmpo family, which includes three brothers: Giannis, Thanasis, and Kostas. They achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first trio of brothers to claim NBA championships - Giannis and Thanasis with the Milwaukee Bucks, and Kostas as a member of the Los Angeles Lakers.
Giannis, renowned as the "Greek Freak," is not the only basketball professional in the family; their brother Alex also shares the same passion. The movie delves into the family's journey after Charles Antetokounmpo and his wife Vera (Veronica) leave Nigeria for Greece. It sheds light on their relentless struggle to support their loved ones amidst the constant threat of deportation.
Moreover, it highlights their efforts to obtain Greek citizenship, which is hindered by a flawed immigration system that seemingly obstructs them at every step, as described in the film's synopsis.
Rise Movie Plot
"In 1990, Charles and Veronica "Vera" Antetokounmpo leave their eldest son, Francis, behind in Nigeria as they seek a better life in Greece. Struggling to obtain visas and identification due to political issues, they live in hiding. By 2004, settled in Greece, they have four more sons: Thanasis, Giannis, Kostas, and Alexandros.
However, despite being born there, the children are denied legal citizenship under nationality laws, putting the family at risk of deportation and separation. To escape refugee round-ups in Turkey, the family's Yoruba surname is Hellenized to Antetokounmpo during immigration processing. Charles faces challenges in getting documentation and work due to a frustrating double standard.
Thanasis and Giannis begin playing basketball in a park, with Thanasis showing natural talent while Giannis struggles but improves. They meet coach Takis Zivas at Filathlitikos, who sees potential in them.
By 2007, Thanasis excels in basketball, and Giannis shows significant progress. Despite their talent, they face adversity when Thanasis is denied a promising college team offer due to his family history. The family's financial situation remains precarious, facing eviction despite having money for rent.
During a match, Giannis and Thanasis are scouted by a young talent scout named Haris Eleftheriou, who tries to persuade the scout manager Paco to recruit them. Thanasis gets injured during the game, but Giannis impresses. However, major teams refuse to sign Giannis due to his status, forcing him to play for recruitment.
A Spanish league offers Giannis a chance and citizenship but only if his whole family gets recognized. Paco attempts to outbid Haris with money and immediate acceptance, but the Antetokounmpos value loyalty and reject his offer.
Haris reveals that the Spanish team won't sign Giannis, but they grant him eligibility for the 2013 NBA draft. Success in the draft means relocation to America for the whole family. Giannis, accompanied by Thanasis and Haris, goes to New York City to meet American agent Kevin Stefanides.
Despite initial reservations from some recruiters, Giannis's talent intrigues representatives from Nike. Nervous about his chances, Giannis finds support from Thanasis. Finally, during the draft, Giannis is overjoyed when the Milwaukee Bucks select him as the fifteenth pick, securing his family's future."
Rise Ending Explained
Charlie and Veronika, despite having all four children born in Greece, lack any evidence or official documentation to prove it. Consequently, there's a risk that all six family members might be deported to Nigeria. Moreover, their eldest child, who was raised by their grandmother back in their home country, remains separated from them, and they yearn to reunite with him after years of being apart.
As the story unfolds, tension builds in the film as Giannis faces challenges during the NBA draft. However, eventually, he gets selected by the Milwaukee Bucks, the same team with which he previously won an NBA championship.
The movie concludes with clips and dedications. Giannis's brother, Thanasis, continues to play for the Bucks and triumphantly secures a championship alongside his brother. Another brother, Kostas, also manages to achieve an NBA championship with the Lakers, even during the challenging pandemic-shortened season. Alex is part of the G-League, with the Toronto Raptors holding his rights.
Finally, the film portrays Giannis winning his first championship and MVP title. He emotionally expresses his feelings about his late father, who sadly passed away before witnessing his son's extraordinary achievements
Rise Movie Cast
Here is the list of cast and character names of Rise Movie.
Cast Name
Character Name
Dayo Okeniyi
Charles Antetokounmpo
Yetide Badaki
Veronica "Vera" Antetokounmpo
Uche Agada
Giannis Antetokounmpo
McColm Cephas Jr.
Young Giannis
Ral Agada
Athanasios "Thanasis" Antetokounmpo
Chinua Baraka Payne
Young Thanasis
Daniel Agammegwa
Toddler Thanasis
Elijah Shomanke
Alexandros "Alex" Antetokounmpo
Jahleel Kamara
Young Alexandros
Jaden Osimuwa
Konstantinos "Kostas" Antetokounmpo
Aaron Kingsley Adetola
Young Kostas
Efthimis Chalkidis
Haris Eleftheriou
Panos Koronis
Takis Zivas
Manish Dayal
Kevin Stefanides: Talent Agent
Christos Loulis
Paco
Akin Omotoso
Bamidele
Anthony Abiola
Francis Antetokounmpo
Taylor Nichols
John Hammond: GM of Milwaukee Bucks
Joke Silva
Cecelia
Kemi Lala Akindoju
Joy
Stamatina Gaj
Ms. Pandazis
Maximiliano Hernández
Oklahoma City Thunder Rep
Rise Movie Release Date
Rise Movie was released on June 24, 2022. In "Rise," a film by French filmmaker Cédric Klapisch, the storyline may not be particularly groundbreaking or filled with unexpected twists, but it presents a familiar narrative in a captivating and enjoyable manner.
Marion Barbeau delivers an engaging and impressive performance as Elise, a lead dancer for the Paris Opera ballet, who suffers a serious ankle injury during a performance, putting her career at risk.
To explore new possibilities for her life, Elise joins an artist's colony in Brittany, where she encounters a contemporary dance company led by real-life choreographer Hofesh Shechter. Initially hesitant due to the contrast between their grounded approach and her classical ballet training, Elise eventually embraces the troupe's communal approach to dance and life, using it as a means to move forward.
While the plot may follow some predictable paths, the film compensates with its skilled craftsmanship, energy, and professionalism. Klapisch, known for his films centered around dance, skillfully immerses viewers in the world of dance, showcasing the beauty of performances and the intense effort behind them. Although some dramatic elements fall short, the exquisite dance sequences make up for the film's clichéd aspects.
The standout element of "Rise" is Marion Barbeau's stellar portrayal of Elise. As a professional dancer, Barbeau convincingly shines in the dance scenes, especially when she undergoes retraining with Shechter's troupe. Additionally, she impressively handles the non-dancing scenes, displaying charm and charisma without any stiffness or self-consciousness. Her portrayal elevates the film, turning it into a compelling experience beyond mere entertainment.
While dance enthusiasts, particularly ballet fans, will find "Rise" captivating, even those with limited exposure to dance can appreciate the film's allure and engaging storytelling.
Rise Movie Trailer
Is Rise Movie True Story? - FAQ
Yes, Rise movie is a true story.
"Rise" is a biographical sports drama film that tells the true story of three young Nigerian-Greek brothers, Giannis, Thanasis, and Kostas Antetokounmpo, who immigrate to the United States and achieve fame and success within the National Basketball Association (NBA).
"Rise" was directed by Akin Omotoso.
The script for "Rise" was written by Arash Amel.
The film stars Uche Agada, Ral Agada, and Jaden Osimuwa in the three primary roles, portraying the Antetokounmpo brothers. Elijah Shomanke, Yetide Badaki, and Dayo Okeniyi play supporting family roles.