King Richard is one of those special films with expert direction, profound performances, and a story that impacts every single emotion. (more below)
Based on the true story that will inspire the world, Warner Bros. Pictures’ “King Richard follows the journey of Richard Williams, an undeterred father instrumental in raising two of the most extraordinarily gifted athletes of all time, who will end up changing the sport of tennis forever. Two-time Oscar nominee Will Smith (“Ali,” “The Pursuit of Happyness,” “Bad Boys for Life”) stars as Richard, under the direction of Reinaldo Marcus Green (“Monsters and Men”).
Driven by a clear vision of their future and using unconventional methods, Richard has a plan that will take Venus and Serena Williams from the streets of Compton, California to the global stage as legendary icons. The profoundly moving film shows the power of family, perseverance and unwavering belief as a means to achieve the impossible and impact the world.
(continued) Some stories are just too amazing to believe. The concept that two sisters could dominate the same sport, and become the greatest of all time. But we are not talking about some unknown athlete that excelled in a lesser known arena. These are the Williams sisters. Venus and Serena are household names in one of the most talked about of sports. We know it is true because we have seen it with our own eyes.
What most of us do not know is the father and mother behind these two phenoms. Richard Williams is a man like few others. Unwilling to let his surroundings and limitations define the projection of his daughters. In this film we see the painstaking – and often pain in the butt – steps he takes to make his girls the best ever.
As I watched this film I was moved by Will Smith’s ability to draw me in to his performance the same way I am sure the real Richard Williams was able to engage those around him. This is not a wealthy, well educated, business man. It is a simple father who never doubted what he had foreseen for his family. A far from perfect individual who had the ability to see a vision through to the end. It is almost prophetic in a way. And as you watch this you see how close it was to that very thing. It is as if he spoke it all into existence. It is a testament to unwavering faith.
Saniyya Sidney is a powerful force in this film as Venus Williams. As a 15-year old actress she carries herself like someone twice her age. Having already worked alongside greats like Denzel Washington and Octavia Spencer it is no wonder she bonds so well with Smith. They are convincing as father and daughter. Likewise, Demi Singleton as Serena Williams rounds out the trio perfectly. This movie is more about Venus’ journey but you can’t have her story without Serena.
Behind every succesful man there is a powerful woman. This move could easily have been called Queen Brandy as we watch a mother who also had so much to do with her daughters’ training and tract to success. Like most families she is the glue and often voice of reason. Aunjanue Ellis excels in the role.
The movie takes place from the early days of the Williams sisters through the Jr’s Tennis championships. It is a very personal glimpse into their life and training. It is encouraging and so often humorous. Much of this is due to Smith’s ability to deliver a line with that trademark twinkle in his eye. It is also due to the real Richard. he was a man that was headstrong and loyal. He never gave into the rules of the day. He was a black man in a what man’s arena but he never let it diminish his spirit. Instead it seemed to make him more determined.
There are other memorable performances including Jon Bernthal as tennis coach Rick Macci. Rick often pulls his hair out trying to coach the girls while dealing with the eccentric father. Bernthal is a face to watch out for during award season as well for his supporting role.
KING RICHARD is more than an underdog story. It is just as much about faith and family as it is sport. The power of sticking together and following a dream is the backbone of this tale. It is by far one of my favorite films of the year. I give it 4.5 out of 5 grand slams. Rated PG-13 for some violence, strong language, a sexual reference and brief drug references, KING RICHARD is in theaters and HBO MAX on November 19th.
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