'Ali', a biopic on legendary boxer Muhammad Ali was perhaps the most talked about film of 2001. Actor Will Smith was one of the favourites that year in the Best Actor category at the Oscars for his performance as the boxer. Eventually he lost the award to Denzel Washington who won it for 'Training Day'. But that does not take away the film's poignancy in any way. Directed by Michael Mann, 'Ali' narrated the Muhammad Ali's story from 1964-74, when he won the heavyweight title after defeating Sonny Liston in that epic match. It also documented Cassious Clay Jr becoming Muhammad Ali and embracing Islam, his banishment from boxing, his subsequent return to fight Joe Frazier in 1971, and his reclaiming the title from George Foreman in the Rumble in the Jungle fight of 1974.
Interestingly, Smith had initially turned down the role and it was only after he received a call from the boxer himself that he decided to do the film. Apparently, the late sports legend convinced Smith by saying that he was the only one as good looking as him that could play the role.
The film also featured Jamie Foxx, Smith's wife Jada Pinkett Smith and Jon Voight among others. The film documented the incidents that took place after Ali won a gold medal at the Olympics in 1964. A poignant tale of grit, determination and will power to stand up[ and fight back, the film also documented the turbulent time of the black history in America in the 60's.
As the legend leaves a legacy behind and world mourns this huge loss, watch the film and celebrate the fighter that he was.
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