King Richard is currently out in theaters and streaming on HBO Max. It received positive reviews from critics and movie goers alike. Besides praise, It’s making revenue at the box office. I previously listed King Richard as one of my “Top 12 Anticipated Films On HBO Max.”
Will Smith’s upcoming film is “Emancipation” directed by Antoine Fuqua. Same guy who made “Training Day,” “The Equalizer,” it’s sequel & “The Magnificent Seven 2016.” Don’t forget Emancipation is only available on Apple TV streaming in 2022.
This review contains no SPOILERS. I’m giving everybody a chance to see this film. Is it an instant classic? Let’s find out shall we?
Winner & Loser Aspects
Winner: Will Smith did an excellent job for his performance as the titular character. In addition to headlining the film, Will served as a co-producer courtesy of his production company “Overbrook Entertainment.” His wife, Jada Pinkett Smith served as an executive producer.
Fun Fact: This isn’t Will’s first rodeo in a sports drama. Remember these gems “The Legend Of Bagger Vance,” “Ali” & “Concussion?”
Saniyya Sidney & Demi Singleton both did a great job for their respective performances as Venus & Serena Williams.
The real Serena produced the film. That’s right. She’s also a producer when she’s not partaking in a tennis match. As you may know, she’s married to Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian.
Other Cast Members such as Jon Bernthal, & Tony Goldwyn all did a decent job for their respective performances.
If you’re a fan of “American Horror Story” like me, Dylan McDermott makes a brief appearance.
Cinematography never succumbed to gimmicky Shaky Cam.
Chemistry between Richard, Venus, & Serna serves as the main highlight.
There’s some funny moments with Richard and his family.
Richard isn’t a money grubbing stage dad pressuring his kids, he actually cares about them asking both Venus & Serena what they wanna do for the rest of their lives. What I’m trying to say is Richard wants them to have a good time.
The film is set in The Early 90s. Recapturing the time period.
I’m not gonna lie, a fart scene made me laugh.
Primary Themes are Fatherhood, Family, Passion, Sports, Social Class, & Rags To Riches. Each one is handled maturely.
Like “The Pursuit Of Happyness,” the message is never give up your dreams. If you try hard, that dream will become a reality.
If you have a sensitive side, you’re gonna cry in a good way. Sorry fellas, I didn’t shed a single tear. Last time a movie made me teary-eyed was “No Time To Die.”
Before The End Credits roll, photographs, archive footage and various texts shows us what Richard, Venus & Serena are up to these days.
Loser: I couldn’t find any problems. I’m giving The Cast & Crew an Extra Point for making a flawless movie as possible.
The Final Verdict: A, FOR APEX!
King Richard is a feel-good instant classic that’ll keep you invested from start to finish. I think this movie is an Oscar worthy contender for Will Smith. If The Academy picks him as a nominee for “Best Actor,” he’s definitely overdue. He was previously nominated for Ali & The Pursuit Of Happyness. If you’re into tennis or a Will Smith fan, I strongly recommend King Richard.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 