Film Review: Ali (2001)

Michael Mann established himself as one of Hollywood's most respected directors in the late 20th century, known for his distinctive style and compelling storytelling. However, the dawn of the 21st century saw a shift in his fortunes, exemplified by his flawed 2001 biopic Ali.

Dedicated to the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali (played by Will Smith), the film chronicles the tumultuous period between 1964 and 1974, arguably the most eventful decade of Ali's life. Initially introduced as Cassius Clay, an Olympic gold medallist and friend of Malcolm X (played by Mario Van Peebles), Ali's journey unfolds as he embraces Islam, supports the civil rights movement, and famously refuses to be drafted into the US military during the Vietnam War. This controversial decision leads to his ostracization, legal battles, and eventual triumph over George Foreman (played by Charles Shufford) in the historic Rumble in the Jungle match.

Ali was a highly anticipated project in Hollywood, attracting top-tier filmmakers eager to tackle the iconic boxer's story. Michael Mann approached the biopic with meticulous attention to detail, resulting in a two-year production period and a budget exceeding $100 million, a substantial investment for a biographical film. The film seemed tailor-made for award recognition, focusing on an iconic figure and civil rights and anti-war sentiment – themes resonataing with Boomers, increasingly influential demographic cohort among Academy voters. Despite that, it fell short of critical acclaim and box office success.

Will Smith's portrayal of Muhammad Ali stands out as a highlight of the film. Known primarily for comedic roles, Smith initially rejected offer to play role and changed his mind only after conversation with Ali himself. He approached the project with dedication, studying Ali's mannerisms, undergoing physical transformation, and committing to the role with sincerity. His performance, marked by authenticity and depth, was a standout element in an otherwise lacklustre production.

However, Ali struggled to resonate with audiences and critics alike. It had misfortune of being released shortly after the 9/11 attacks, and in the climate of heightened patriotism and jingoistic hysteria that would ultimately lead to Iraq War, there was little room to accept someone refusing to fight for his country as a hero.

Even with politics aside, Ali faltered in its execution. While some scenes were well-directed, the film lacked cohesion and failed to weave its multiple narratives into a compelling whole. The disjointed storytelling, particularly in its portrayal of Ali's personal and religious journey, left the film feeling fragmented and lacking in depth. Moreover, the film's pacing issues and bloated runtime further detracted from its overall impact. Clocking in at over two and a half hours, Ali might test the patience of viewers, failing to sustain engagement throughout its lengthy duration.

While Will Smith's performance garnered praise, ultimately, Ali falls short of its potential. The film's narrative shortcomings, combined with its failure to capture the essence of its iconic subject, make it a lacklustre addition to the biopic genre. For audiences seeking a more nuanced and authentic portrayal of Muhammad Ali's life and legacy, documentaries like the Oscar-winning When We Were Kings offer a more compelling and insightful exploration of the legendary boxer's story.

RATING: 4/10 (+)

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