King Richard Review: 7 Ups & 3 Downs
Will Smith turns in one of his finest performances in this riveting sports drama.
Landing in cinemas and on HBO Max this week is one of the year's most buzzed-about dramas - the Will Smith-starring sports biopic King Richard.
Smith, who has kept a relatively low cinematic profile over the last few years, is back with a project sure to remind everyone of his firm acting chops in the dramatic arena - and that, yes, he's still hungry for an Oscar.
Smith is a revelation as Richard Williams, the father of future tennis stars Venus and Serena, in a formulaic but well-executed inspirational sports drama that's guaranteed to score Smith a Best Actor Oscar nomination (and possibly even the win).
Even outside of his terrific performance, though, there's a lot else to enjoy here, namely a top-drawer ensemble cast and slick direction that works through the expected beats with energy and enthusiasm.
It's not the freshest or most unique film you'll see this year, but it delivers the expected goods in mostly gripping fashion.
Whether you're a fan of Smith or the Williams sisters, or simply enjoy a compelling story persuasively told, King Richard has rewards a-plenty to offer.
But first, here's what holds it back from being a true classic of the genre...