Common Sense Media Review
By Sabrina McFarland
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Teens persevere through cultural customs in winning docu.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Alaskan Nets
What's the Story?
Generational pride and passion for basketball and fishing take center court in ALASKAN NETS. Teen cousins and teammates Desmond "DJ" King, 16, and Danny Marsden, 18, are determined to win a high school state championship title while the pair also help with the family's livelihood in the commercial fishing industry. The tasks are taxing, both physically and emotionally for King and Marsden, but they take decisive steps in hope of reaching their goals even in the face of adversity.
Is It Any Good?
Audiences will deeply appreciate this first-rate film's definitive take on a community's longstanding traditions as a form of survival. In Alaskan Nets, fishing and basketball have been the way of life for generations among the Metlakatla. "I love to play basketball," says junior guard Desmond "DJ" King. "It's just in my blood." For cousin Danny Marsden, a senior forward, the fishing industry is just as important. "Everybody in my family has been fishing forever," Mardsen declares. "It's been the only thing shown to me. I had to go out and prove that I could provide for my family." And for viewing families, Alaskan Nets gets a perfect score for inevitable discussions about its remarkable story.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the teamwork by the cast in Alaskan Nets. How do they also demonstrate communication and compassion? Why are these important character strengths?
In what ways does perseverance in the activities of basketball and fishing impact the Metlakatla residents?
What are the possible effects suicide and work-related deaths have on the community? Are their ways of coping with loss and prevention helpful? Why or why not?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : July 5, 2022
- Cast : Desmond "DJ" King , Danny Marsden , TJ Scott
- Director : Jeff Harasimowicz
- Studio : Good Deed Entertainment
- Genre : Documentary
- Topics : Friendship , School ( High School )
- Character Strengths : Communication , Compassion , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time : 117 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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