Review of When We Were Kings (1996) by Kyle V — 05 Sep 2009

Most Muhammad Ali documentaries, it seems, seem to delve more towards the man and his outlooks on the world. Which isn't a bad thing, seeing as how Muhammad Ali was one of the more brutally honest, less tragic, boxing stories in sports history. Sure, he's not doing too well these days, but spiritually, Muhammad Ali is one of the few success stories in boxing history. The man was pure magic. He had a heart for the world he lived in and for his own race. He knew what he was talking about and in this documentary covering the "Rumble In The Jungle" fight between Ali and Foreman, we see a more selfless man then his earlier exploits. Ali turned from being the great egotistical boxer to being a political leader that gave to the world. What other boxers have ever done that?

I think that's why Ali's never been in the midst of negative controversy. He gave up on himself and turned to becoming an influential leader instead. It's really a beautiful story and this documentary captures it well.

One thing I didn't like about this fight was it didn't give Foreman much of a chance to look good. It plays highly on the Protaganist vs. Antagonist aspect. If 'When We Were Kings' wasn't released in 1996, if it was released in the 1970's while Ali was still fighting, I think the focus would have been more even sided on both fighters.

But, however anyone feels about it came out as it was supposed to and it is a great documentary? Best ever? No....but for Ali fans it's a great glimpse into Ali's heart and soul.