"I am the most average!"

The problem with "Ali" is not the acting. Will Smith gives an outstanding performance as the champ and Jon Voight captures Howard Cosell perfectly. The problem is not technical either. The cinematography is great, as is the editing, director Michael Mann is very capable behind the camera and the first 15 minutes are incredible..

The problem lies in the length and the story. "Ali" is 2 and a half hours long, and I found myself constatnly checking my watch during the last 30 minutes. My main complaint is that the script tries to relate Ali with every single event involving African Americans during the 60s. I know he was involved with many, but I doubt many of his actions in the movie are true. It's annoying to say the least. I went to see a movie about Ali the boxer, and I got a film about Ali the activist.

It's worth watching, but it won't knock your socks off. Want a great boxing movie? See "Raging Bull."

© Written by Jacob Hall

How We Rated This Film TC Candler -     Richard Propes - C Jacob Hall - B-

TC Candler's Comment

n/a

Richard Propes' Comment

I'll admit I am less than thrilled that Jamie Foxx won the Oscar for last year's "Ray." I was even more appalled when buzz started happening for Will Smith's performance in this vastly overrated film. Have you ever watched a film that just cried out for an editor? That would be this film. It is an exercise in lengthy scenes with no purpose. Muhammad Ali deserves much better than this half-baked film. Does Smith do an admirable job? Sure, he's pretty decent here. He is not, however, Oscar worthy and the film is almost instantly forgettable.