King Richard, the 2021 biographical sports drama starring Will Smith, is now streaming on BBC iPlayer, offering a feel-good watch for Wimbledon fans. The film chronicles the remarkable true story behind tennis icons Venus and Serena Williams' ascent to stardom, focusing on their father Richard Williams' steadfast dedication.
Plot and Cast
Directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green from a screenplay by Zach Baylin, the film features Aunjanue Ellis as Richard's wife, Brandy Williams, with Saniyya Sidney and Demi Singleton portraying the young Venus and Serena. Tony Goldwyn and Jon Bernthal complete the supporting ensemble, while the Williams sisters themselves served as executive producers.
Set in Compton, California, the narrative follows Richard and Brandy as they raise their family while managing full-time employment. Despite scarce resources, the pair invest endless hours training Venus and Serena, with Richard certain his daughters were bound for excellence well before they entered the professional arena, reports the Mirror.
Richard Williams' Unorthodox Plan
Recognising that raw talent alone wouldn't suffice, Richard creates a comprehensive plan for their futures and dedicates years to finding an elite coach. Equipped with self-made promotional footage and pamphlets showcasing the girls' remarkable abilities, he contacts some of tennis's most celebrated figures, resolute in providing his daughters with the chances they merit.
His determination eventually captures the interest of esteemed coach Paul Cohen, who consents to evaluate the sisters. Struck by their potential, Cohen proposes to work with Venus, though the family's limited finances meant Serena continued training under her mother's supervision.
Critical Acclaim and Audience Reception
While Venus begins to make an impact on the junior tennis scene, Richard remains committed to shielding his daughters from the burdens of premature stardom. Instead of pursuing immediate glory, he urges both girls to remain grounded, focus on their studies and savour their youth while preparing for the professional paths he's always envisaged for them.
King Richard has garnered excellent feedback from audiences. Writing on IMDb, one cinema-goer commented: "The feel-good movie of the year. Incredible performance from Will Smith, maybe his best ever. Lots of funny moments. The showing at the LFF had the audience up on their feet, applauding." Another wrote: "Will Smith delivers a tour de force performance in this engaging family drama as the overbearing father of tennis legends Venus and Serena Williams. It's a beautifully shot film with strong performances overall. My only gripe is that this is not a biopic about the Williams sisters."
King Richard is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
