‘King Richard’ Is a Gripping, Brilliant Portrait of Serena and Venus Williams’s Father


There’s always been a general curiosity around how great people become great. How they transcend their often humble beginnings to make a name for themselves, to gain noteworthy acclaim, and to become icons in the lives of people they’ve never met nor will ever know. If you’re a sports fan, you likely had those thoughts about Serena and Venus Williams, the tennis greats who went from Compton to Wimbledon and forever changed the face of the game. 

King Richard, out now in theaters and on HBO Max, stars Will Smith in the titular role of Richard Williams, and gives a compelling portrayal of the man behind the sports megastars. At times comical and emotional, the stirring biopic lays the foundation for the Venus and Serena we know today. Through award-worthy performances, it gives credence to their drive while familiarizing us with the genius behind their awe-inspiring ascension.

“This world ain’t never had no respect for Richard Williams, but they’re going to respect y’all.” This line, delivered flawlessly by Smith, provides the overarching sentiment behind the film. Well before the decorated sisters were placed on a public stage, Richard had to contend with racism, with gang violence, those who cast doubt on his ability to parent, people who could not see past the color of his skin. During the sister’s rise, the dedicated father was often labeled “controversial” or “overbearing,” and many people, coaches and media outlets included, suggested that the rising stars sideline the male patriarch. But if this movie does anything, it forces you to respect Richard Williams. It discredits much of the conversation around the polarizing figure and celebrates him as the man with the plan who made his dream become reality.

Though the primary focus of the film revolves around the Williams sisters’ emergence into the elite world of tennis, it also does well at paying tribute to the woman who stood side by side with Richard along the way. We’ve seen Aunjanue L. Ellis dominate in the role of mother before. Lifetime’s The Clark Sisters and HBO’s Lovecraft Country are just two that come to mind. But in her role as Oracene, mother of Venus, Serena, and three older daughters, the depth of her talent is solidified. Shared scenes with Smith are particularly dynamic. Their chemistry onscreen brilliantly illustrates the complexities of marriage. While there is love for each other, there is a greater mission: to rear their girls in a home that is filled with love and support. And you feel it from the beginning scenes to the very end. 

There’s something to be said about this family unit. While Oracene was a mother prior to meeting Richard, the two made sure they had one, cohesive family. One that cheered for one another, encouraged one another, and built one another up, regardless of the circumstance. King Richard makes it clear: Richard Williams has his flaws. But he navigates his downfalls with determination, being ever so careful to not let his own desires take over. Equipped with a profound love for his girls and the persistence needed to see them win, this extraordinary man disarmed stereotypes about who he should be and showed the world why he is a “king.”

Tanya Christian is a writer and editor based in New York City. Follow her on Twitter @tanyaachristian. 





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