Like Mike
Performance & Direction: Like Mike Review
Last updated: February 16, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Like Mike (2002) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 6.1/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Family.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Family is often anchored by its ensemble, and Like Mike features a noteworthy lineup led by Shad Moss . Supported by the likes of Morris Chestnut and Jonathan Lipnicki , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: Like Mike
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2002, Like Mike is a Family, Comedy, Fantasy film directed by John Schultz. The narrative presents a compelling narrative that engages viewers from start to finish. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Shad Moss.
Story Breakdown
The title presents its narrative with careful attention to pacing and character development. Calvin and his friends, who all live in an orphanage, find old shoes with the faded letters MJ connected to a powerline. One stormy night, they go to get the shoes when Calvin and the shoes are struck by lightning. Calvin now has unbelievable basketball powers and has the chance to play for the NBA. The story unfolds naturally, allowing viewers to become invested in the outcome while maintaining engagement throughout.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The title establishes its world and central conflict efficiently in the opening act.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Shad Moss's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The climax brings together the narrative threads, providing resolution while staying true to the established tone.
Ending Explained: Like Mike
Ending Breakdown: Directed by John Schultz, Like Mike concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to family resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions involving Shad Moss, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the family themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Like Mike reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Like Mike?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Family films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Shad Moss or the director
- Want solid genre entertainment
Box Office Collection: Like Mike
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $30.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $62.3M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Like Mike Budget
The estimated production budget for Like Mike is $30.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Top Cast: Like Mike
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Where to Watch Like Mike Online?
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Google Play MoviesYouTubeLike Mike Parents Guide & Age Rating
2002 AdvisoryWondering about Like Mike age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Like Mike is 99 minutes (1h 39m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.1/10, and global performance metrics, Like Mike is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2002 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Like Mike worth watching?
Like Mike is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Family movies. It has a verified rating of 6.1/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Like Mike parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Like Mike identifies it as PG. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Like Mike?
The total duration of Like Mike is 99 minutes, which is approximately 1h 39m long.
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movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
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