Review of King Richard (2021) by Nobodyyouknow — 24 Nov 2021
At nearly 2.5 hours, the movie ends right at the beginning of Venus' professional career at age 14 -- to say nothing of Serena, of course. While the movie obviously focuses on the father, it felt oddly clipped to end right at the beginning of the career of two sports legends.
Smith does an admirable job as Richard, though he occasionally overacts. But you definitely feel and learn about Richard's humanity (the good and bad).
The standout in this film is Aunjanue Ellis who plays the Williams mom, Brandi. She is by far the most believable, nuanced character; each of her scenes ground the film in reality. The best scene of the movie is where she and Richard get into an argument about their respective roles in the relationship and their impact on the girls' lives. She drives the scene, and Smith is (wisely) the passenger.
Most of the other actors are either too amateurish or too over-the-top. Bernthal's portrayal of coach Rick was disappointingly cartoonish.
As a biopic, it suffices, yet I rarely felt an emotional connection to Richard. I realize he was the driving force in the incredible rise of the Williams sisters, but I can't help but wonder if the story would've been more compelling if it were told from Brandi's perspective.
This review of King Richard (2021) was written by Nobodyyouknow on 24 Nov 2021.
King Richard has generally received positive reviews.
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