Where can I watch Once Brothers?

Once Brothers is a poignant documentary that delves into the intertwined lives of Dražen Petrović and Vlade Divac, two basketball prodigies who rose from the camaraderie of their youth in Yugoslavia to the heights of the NBA. Released in 2010, this biographical film captures not only their remarkable athletic achievements but also the profound personal and political turmoil that emerged as their homeland unraveled. The narrative artfully juxtaposes the exhilarating moments of their basketball triumphs with the devastating backdrop of war that fractured their friendship, illustrating how the game they loved became a haunting reminder of the divisions tearing their country apart.

As the film unfolds, viewers are drawn into the emotional complexities of their relationship. Once celebrated as brothers on and off the court, the pair found themselves on opposing sides during the Yugoslav Wars, embodying a heartbreaking rift fueled by ethnic tensions. Through archival footage and heartfelt interviews, Once Brothers thoughtfully explores themes of friendship, loss, and the impact of broader societal conflicts on personal relationships. The tragic death of Petrović in 1993 adds a layer of sorrow, leaving Divac—and the audience—reflecting on the unspoken words and unresolved feelings that lingered between them. This film is not just a sports documentary; it’s a stirring testament to the human spirit and the indelible scars left by history, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the deeper stories behind the game of basketball.