Ali is, I hate to say, a great example of a film which can not live up to the huge expectations surrounding it. Will Smith is one of the biggest celebrities in the world right now - actor, musician, professional etc. etc. and we all know Ali was and is one of the greatest sportsmen EVER. However, I feel that due to the scale of the afore mentioned expectations and the slow, tiresome and frankly boring script the film is a huge disappointment.
The plot is mainly based around the events in Ali's life other than the fights themselves. The intimidation he caused, the controversy and his religious beliefs. Such topics are of interest to the typical Ali fan but the way in which they are covered is too brief. King of The World was a far better Ali film (at least thats what I think it was called).
In short, although Will Smith is a fantastic actor, I never felt myself moved or entheusiastic about the film. Also the film only covers Alis life from 64 to 74 when the man is still a legend even today.
Director Michael Mann should be less than pleased with what he has done with a story that could have moved people in a really special way.
With regard to extras on the DVD, the Dramatic Trailors are about as good as it get! Am truly sorry to all those who like the 'film'.
How helpful would this review be to a person making a buying decision? Rating guidelines
Production Year: 2003 - Comedy - Director: John Crowley - Original Language: English - Classification: 18 years and over - Starring: Colin Farrell, Shirley Henderson, Cillian Murphy, Colm Meaney, Rory Keenan, Laurence Kinlan
(+) Because of the new series the box set isn't complete, which means it will be cheaper! (-) It isnt the complete box set so you'll have to buy the new dvds seperatly or wait for the new set!
Comedy - Original Language: English - Classification: 12 years and over - Starring: Tessa Peake-Jones, Buster Merryfield, David Jason, Nicholas Lyndhurst
I enjoyed it. Some of the comments you made are valid, but it was a truly exceptional performance from Will Smith, which pulled the film up singlehanded. More worthy of three, or possibly even four stars I think
Mattroberts 13.03.2003 20:11
more info would get this a higher rating off me! well done, matt x x x
Kirsty1 13.03.2003 17:30
I quite agree. I was really looking forward to watching Ali but felt quite let down by it when the time came. Welcome to Ciao, hope you enjoy it here :o) Kirsty
Advantages: Will Smiths performance, the general realist plot. Disadvantages: adjusting yourself to Will Smith as Ali can be hard. Some might say the film is too long.
davebarf 28.01.2003 ·
Read review
Ciao members have rated this review on average: helpful
Review of Ali G - Aiii (DVD)