“The Last Dance” (2020), directed by Jason Hehir, is a monumental sports documentary that chronicles the career of basketball legend Michael Jordan, with a particular focus on his final season with the Chicago Bulls in 1997-98. This 10-part series, co-produced by ESPN and Netflix, offers an unprecedented look into one of the greatest dynasties in sports history.

The documentary interweaves two primary narratives: the story of the 1997-98 season, known as “The Last Dance,” and a broader examination of Jordan’s entire career and the Bulls’ rise to dominance in the 1990s. This structure allows the series to provide both immediate drama and historical context, creating a rich, multifaceted portrait of Jordan and his era.

At the heart of “The Last Dance” is Michael Jordan himself. The series features extensive interviews with Jordan, offering insights into his unparalleled competitive drive, his leadership style, and the personal costs of his pursuit of greatness. The documentary doesn’t shy away from controversial aspects of Jordan’s career, including his gambling habits and his sometimes harsh treatment of teammates.

The series also delves deep into the other key figures of the Bulls dynasty. It explores the complex dynamics between Jordan and his teammates, particularly Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman, as well as his relationship with coach Phil Jackson. The tension between the players and the Bulls’ general manager, Jerry Krause, provides a compelling subplot that underscores the fragility of even the greatest teams.

One of the strengths of “The Last Dance” is its use of previously unseen footage. A film crew was given unprecedented access to the Bulls during the 1997-98 season, and this behind-the-scenes material offers a raw, unfiltered look at the team’s dynamics. From locker room discussions to private moments on the team bus, these clips provide a level of intimacy rarely seen in sports documentaries.

The series also excels in its portrayal of the cultural impact of Jordan and the Bulls. It explores how Jordan transformed from a basketball player into a global icon, revolutionizing sports marketing and becoming a symbol of excellence that transcended basketball. The documentary touches on Jordan’s impact on popular culture, from his Air Jordan sneakers to his starring role in “Space Jam.”

“The Last Dance” doesn’t limit itself to basketball. It provides necessary historical and social context, touching on issues like the AIDS crisis (through Magic Johnson’s HIV diagnosis), race relations in America, and the changing landscape of sports media and marketing in the 1990s.

The series has been praised for its pacing and storytelling. Each episode feels like a self-contained story while contributing to the larger narrative. The use of a non-linear timeline keeps viewers engaged, with revelations and insights from earlier in Jordan’s career informing our understanding of the events of the “Last Dance” season.

Musically, the documentary is a triumph. Its soundtrack features a mix of 1990s hip-hop and R&B that perfectly captures the era, enhancing the nostalgic appeal for viewers who lived through the Bulls’ dominance.

The impact of “The Last Dance” has been significant. It sparked renewed interest in Jordan’s career and the NBA of the 1990s, introducing a new generation to one of basketball’s golden era.