Move over French Open, there’s a new racquet sport in town that’s been taking the world by storm – pickleball. This once obscure game has quickly risen to fame, captivating the hearts of millions of Americans in just a few short years. “Dreambreaker: A Pickleball Story,” directed by Ashley Underwood, delves into the incredible growth of the sport and the fierce competition to capitalize on its soaring popularity. Premiering at the San Francisco Documentary Festival last Friday, the film offers a unique glimpse into the world of pickleball and its rapid ascent to fame.
What sets pickleball apart from other sports is its ability to attract a diverse range of players, from senior citizen nudists to professional athletes like LeBron James, Draymond Green, and Kevin Love. Even NFL legend Tom Brady has jumped on the pickleball bandwagon, becoming an investor in the game. “Dreambreaker: A Pickleball Story” showcases the intense rivalry between two wealthy Texas entrepreneurs who form rival professional pickleball leagues, battling over the world’s top players. The film captures the essence of pickleball as it evolves into a competitive and lucrative sport.
A Comedic Touch
Ashley Underwood’s background in producing comedic films like Borat Subsequent Moviefilm and Who Is America? hints at the humorous elements that are sure to be present in “Dreambreaker: A Pickleball Story.” With failed mergers, boardroom brawls, and heated negotiations, the film promises to deliver a blend of light-hearted humor and high-stakes drama. As the pickleball community navigates through its “terrible twos,” emotions run high as celebrities, billionaires, and everyday players all vie for a piece of the action.
The impressive pedigree of “Dreambreaker: A Pickleball Story” extends beyond the screen, with director-producer Ashley Underwood being married to the comedy genius Larry David. Writer-producer Craig Coyne is also married to Barbara Bush, adding a touch of political royalty to the mix. The film’s executive producers, including Robert Benun, Giselle Rodriguez, and Isabelle Thomas, have brought their expertise to the project, ensuring a high-quality production. With cinematography by Sara Kinney and a score composed by Dave Palmer, the film is a testament to the collaborative effort that has gone into capturing the essence of pickleball on screen.
As negotiations for wider distribution of the film are underway, “Dreambreaker: A Pickleball Story” has the potential to reach a global audience, shining a spotlight on the cultural phenomenon that is pickleball. With appearances from tennis legend John McEnroe and a star-studded cast of players and investors, the film offers a unique insight into the world of competitive pickleball. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer to the game, “Dreambreaker: A Pickleball Story” promises to entertain and inspire audiences around the world. Stay tuned for updates on the film’s release and get ready to experience the thrill of pickleball like never before.
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