“Ali” is a biographical sports drama film released in 2001, directed by Michael Mann. Starring Will Smith as the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali, the film chronicles Ali’s rise to prominence as a heavyweight champion and his struggles with race, religion, and political activism. Here’s a detailed summary of the film:
The film spans the years 1964 to 1974, capturing key moments in Muhammad Ali’s life and career, including his conversion to Islam, his refusal to serve in the Vietnam War, and his historic matches against iconic opponents such as Sonny Liston and George Foreman.
The story begins in 1964, when Cassius Clay, as he was then known, defeats Sonny Liston to become the heavyweight champion of the world. Following his victory, Clay announces his conversion to Islam and his affiliation with the Nation of Islam, changing his name to Muhammad Ali.
As Ali rises to prominence as a dominant force in the world of boxing, he also becomes a symbol of black pride and empowerment, using his platform to speak out against racial injustice and inequality. However, his outspokenness and refusal to conform to societal expectations earn him both admiration and controversy.
The film explores Ali’s complex relationships with the people in his life, including his mentor and friend, Malcolm X (played by Mario Van Peebles), his spiritual advisor, Drew Bundini Brown (played by Jamie Foxx), and his wives, including his first wife, Sonji Roi (played by Jada Pinkett Smith), and his second wife, Belinda (played by Nona Gaye).
Throughout his career, Ali faces numerous challenges and setbacks, including his controversial decision to refuse induction into the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, citing his religious beliefs and opposition to the war. As a result, Ali is stripped of his boxing titles and banned from the sport for several years, leading to financial and personal hardship.
Despite these obstacles, Ali remains determined to reclaim his rightful place as the heavyweight champion of the world. He makes a triumphant comeback in the 1970s, culminating in his historic “Rumble in the Jungle” match against George Foreman (played by Charles Shufford) in Zaire, Africa, where Ali famously employs his “rope-a-dope” strategy to defeat Foreman and reclaim the title.
In a climactic sequence, Ali faces off against his longtime rival, Joe Frazier (played by James Toney), in the “Thrilla in Manila,” a grueling and brutal match that pushes both fighters to their limits. Despite emerging victorious, Ali is left physically and emotionally drained, realizing the toll that his career has taken on his body and spirit.
In the end, “Ali” is a powerful and poignant portrayal of one man’s journey to greatness, resilience, and self-discovery. Through its compelling storytelling, nuanced performances, and dynamic cinematography, the film offers a vivid and immersive exploration of the life and legacy of one of the greatest athletes and cultural icons of the 20th century, Muhammad Ali.