Watch Dennis Rodman's Big Bang in Pyongyang

Dennis Rodman's Big Bang in Pyongyang is a unique and fascinating documentary that explores the controversial journey of former NBA star Dennis Rodman to North Korea in 2013. Directed by British filmmaker Colin Offland, the film features interviews with Rodman and his team, North Korean citizens, political experts, and journalists to provide an inside look into one of the most elusive and secretive countries in the world.

The film begins with a quick overview of Rodman's career as an NBA player and how he became interested in North Korea, specifically its leader Kim Jong-un. Rodman and Kim had forged an unlikely friendship back in 2013, and Rodman was determined to visit North Korea to play a basketball game with the country's national team. Many people viewed Rodman's friendship with Kim as questionable, especially since North Korea is a notoriously oppressive regime with a history of human rights violations. Nevertheless, Rodman remained determined to make the trip and set up the historic basketball game.

As the documentary unfolds, viewers get to see a behind-the-scenes look at the planning and execution of the trip. Rodman and his team encounter numerous challenges, including visa issues, logistics, and concerns about their safety. There are also several tense moments during the trip, such as when Rodman sings "Happy Birthday" to Kim Jong-un and when he becomes emotional during a TV interview. Through it all, however, Rodman remains committed to his mission and determined to make the basketball game happen.

What sets this documentary apart from others is the fact that it offers a rare glimpse into North Korean culture and society. Viewers get to see some of the country's national landmarks, including the Juche Tower and the Kim Il-sung Stadium. They also get to meet and hear from North Korean citizens, who share their thoughts and feelings about their country, their leadership, and the cultural exchange with Rodman and his team. The interviews are eye-opening and provide a unique perspective on a country that is often portrayed negatively in Western media.

Throughout the film, the tension between Rodman and the media is palpable. The media, both Western and North Korean, are eager to get answers from Rodman about his friendship with Kim and his thoughts on North Korea. Meanwhile, Rodman is wary of the media and is careful not to say anything that could be misconstrued or taken out of context. This dynamic adds an interesting layer to the documentary and serves as a reminder of the power and influence of the media.

Overall, Dennis Rodman's Big Bang in Pyongyang is a thought-provoking and engaging documentary that offers a unique look into the world of North Korea. It's not just a film about basketball or celebrity culture; it's a film about diplomacy, cultural exchange, and the power of human connection. Whether you're a die-hard basketball fan, a political junkie, or simply curious about the world, this documentary is well worth a watch.

Dennis Rodman's Big Bang in Pyongyang is a 2015 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 36 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3.