By Ron Wynn
NASHVILLE, TN — Will Smith has portrayed famous fathers before, most notably Muhammad Ali. But it’s still somewhat of a surprise that he’ll soon be portraying one of the most famous fathers in sports history and particularly in the tennis world. Last week Warner Bros. presented the first trailer for the upcoming film “King Richard,” which stars Smith as Richard Williams, the father of the great Venus and Serena Williams.
The film also stars Saniyya Sidney and Demi Singleton as Venus and Serena Williams, Aunjanue Ellis as Oracene “Brandi” Williams, Jon Bernthal as coach Rick Macci, and Tony Goldwyn as coach Paul Cohen. Dylan McDermott also stars.
Warner Bros. official release says, “(the film is) based on the true story that will inspire the world, “King Richard” follows the journey of Richard Williams, an undeterred father instrumental in raising two of the most extraordinarily gifted athletes of all time, who will end up changing the sport of tennis forever. Driven by a clear vision of their future and using unconventional methods, Richard has a plan that will take Venus and Serena Williams from the streets of Compton, California to the global stage as legendary icons. “King Richard” is a profoundly moving film that shows the power of family, perseverance and unwavering belief as a means to achieve the impossible and impact the world.”
The film is directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green and written by Zach Baylin. The producers are Tim White and Trevor White under their Star Thrower Entertainment banner, and Will Smith under his Westbrook banner. Isha Price, Serena Williams, Venus Williams, James Lassiter, Jada Pinkett Smith, Adam Merims, Lynn Harris, Allan Mandelbaum, Jon Mone and Peter Dodd serve as executive producers.
The trailer can be viewed at the Shadow and Act website.
