When We Were Kings (1996) transports viewers to 1974, when legendary boxers Muhammad Ali and George Foreman journeyed to the fledgling and politically tumultuous African nation of Zaire for a historic world heavyweight championship bout dubbed the "Rumble in the Jungle." Director Leon Gast traveled to Zaire to capture both the epic fight and a star-studded music festival, featuring performances by B.B. King, The Pointer Sisters, and Miriam Makeba, orchestrated by promoter Don King. Initially shelved for over two decades due to legal and financial hurdles, the film's eventual release in 1996 offered a compelling glimpse into the controversial figure of Ali. At 33, Ali was deemed past his peak, and his moral stance against military service still resonated with many. However, the documentary showcases Ali's resilience, skill, intellect, and charisma, illustrating his ascent to global sports icon status. Meanwhile, Foreman is portrayed as a formidable and intimidating adversary, far removed from his later persona as a jovial pitchman. The film also includes insights from renowned fight enthusiasts such as Norman Mailer, George Plimpton, and Spike Lee. Recognized for its historical and cultural significance, When We Were Kings (1996) garnered an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Feature and earned a Special Jury Recognition Prize at the Sundance Film Festival.
When We Were Kings (1996)
1996 · Documentary · 89 min. · United States
Credits
Direction Leon Gast
Cast Muhammad Ali · George Foreman · Don King · James Brown · B.B. King · Mobutu Sese Seko · Spike Lee · Norman Mailer · George Plimpton · Thomas Hauser · Malick Bowens · Lloyd Price · Wilton Felder · Wayne Henderson · Stix Hooper · Joe Sample · Miriam Makeba
Screenplay Leon Gast
Cinematography Maryse Alberti · Paul Goldsmith · Kevin Keating · Albert Maysles · Roderick Young
Technical sheet
Title When We Were Kings
Original title When We Were Kings
Year 1996
Type Documentary
Length 89 min.
Country United States
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In the United States, you can watch When We Were Kings (1996) online on Max. Since availability may vary by country and over time, we recommend checking directly on streaming platforms for the latest options.
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