King Richard
King Richard (2021)
When I first saw the trailer for this I did wonder why a film about two female world champions was being told through the male gaze with their father as the protagonist. Naturally, my inner do-gooder kicked off. And then of course I actually watched it and chided myself on being a knee-jerk gobshite. For a second there I really was no better than those moaning lonely pre-teens on Twitter who’s every published opinions are being manipulated to influence our every day lives.
The titular King is Richard Williams, father of tennis superstars Venus and Serena and this story is his “plan”. Raising his family his way simply to keep them off the streets of Compton, California. Every day insisting that his five daughters have written down their plans for the next day (note: invest in a journal). Watch in disbelief as this wizard plans his family’s entire destiny. Always stringent but forever encouraging his girls to “just have fun”. Spoiler alert: they do ok.
It is apt that this story is a critical and commercial triumph. Nominated for six Oscars including Best Picture, Best Original
Screenplay and Best Supporting Actress for the endearing Aunjanue Ellis as the queen to Smith’s king. Also securing Beyoncé her (outrageous) first Oscar nomination for Best Original Song. Unless it’s over a large glass of Malbec do not get me started on the heinous omission of her songwriter credit for the nominated Listen from Dreamgirls in 2006. I just can’t fathom.
I am delighted that Will has been nominated for Best Actor (and the favourite to win). I say Will like I know him well. But I feel I do. From my relationship with Fresh Prince every night on BBC2 after school to his phenomenal transition to blockbuster movies like Men in Black (honestly I even loved Wild Wild West) to his recent remarkable memoir. He’s always been my prime example of charisma personified and It’s incredibly hard to see him beaten up and vulnerable. I’ve never wanted to enter the screen and protect someone more. It’s a very Julia Roberts in Erin Brokovich performance but as someone who loves that film and that Oscar win I’m here to champion him all the way to the big night. Honestly I’m excited.
This pearl of a film is an absolute recipe for success; parents facing adversity, stimulating speeches, authentic performances and creative set pieces - young Serena and Venus simultaneously training, one privileged the other bare bones, at the same time is thrilling, inspiring and hugely satisfying.
A story of belief, astonishing tenacity and mind-blowing decision making (looking at you Nike representative). A perfect feel-great film, just in time for Spring, to motivate you get outdoors and into the sunshine.
10 Galvanising Thumbs Up 👍🏻
