The long-awaited sequel to Space Jam as Space Jam: A New Legacy, starring LeBron James, dropped into theaters last Friday. The film debuted atop the box office, earning roughly $31.7 million domestically, as fans flocked to see what would follow the iconic first movie.
However, A New Legacy was met with fairly harsh reviews. Among the critics that bashed LeBron and the new movie was Joe Pytka, the director of the franchise’s first film.
Pytka listed a whole host of complaints with the most notable critique centering around the Los Angeles Lakers star. Here’s more from Vanity Fair:
“According to a new TMZ report, Pytka has several issues with the long-awaited follow-up, including its soundtrack and supporting cast. The filmmaker apparently told the outlet that he watched Space Jam: A New Legacy over five separate occasions, as it was too dull to complete at once. Pytka also referred to the film’s soundtrack as “insignificant,” a sentiment he shared about the sequel’s roster of NBA players, including Anthony Davis and Damian Lillard. In short, the director said, “The truth is that LeBron ain’t Michael.”
Space Jam director Joe Pytka took his grievances with the new film off the court. https://t.co/BQCOdERgWO
— VANITY FAIR (@VanityFair) July 21, 2021
Pytka also nitpicked the film’s depiction of portrayal of iconic animated star, Bugs Bunny. Clearly, he didn’t have much positive to say about the sequel.
In fairness to LeBron and A New Legacy director Malcolm D. Lee, Pytka’s original film was also met with a harsh critical response. At the time of its release, many viewers didn’t like Michael Jordan in the movie and adult audiences found it obnoxious.
But Pytka’s movie resonated with young fans who ultimately helped turn the movie into a classic. It’s possible that Lee’s and James’s sequel could do the same.
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