Going Big

Sam Bowie had a productive basketball career at Kentucky and in the NBA but was plagued by leg injuries and lofty expectations (he was drafted one spot ahead of Michael Jordan). Still, he never let his run of bad fortune deflate his spirit, eventually finding success and happiness as a horse owner in Lexington, Kentucky.

Directed by Jon Fish, Tom Friend, Going Big leans on a strong ensemble — Sam Bowie, Charles Barkley, Hakeem Olajuwon — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about documentary titles of 2012.