The trouble with bio-pics

Rating: Null/10 (26 December 2001)

While I enjoyed Ali, I did think it rather lengthy. The main problem I had with the film is the problem I have with all bio-pics. Just because a person has an interesting life doesn't mean that every scene is going to be interesting. There were a few too many boring scenes. When a movie is over 2 hours and has several boring, unnecessary scenes, I have a problem.

Definitely no Oscar cheers for Will Smith although he did have the Ali thing down packed. Jamie Foxx and John Voight on the other hand, I wouldn't be surprised at all if one or both received Oscar nods. Jamie Foxx stole every scene he was in. He did a remarkable job. Jada Pinkett Smith was obviously part of Will's initial negotiations. "Is there a part for my wife?"

The picture did a decent job with that chapter of Ali's life. The audience was very sympathetic for him. However, the story was incomplete because it failed to show all sides. As I watched the film, I was curious as to the historical accuracy. We all know that Hollywood is capable of re-writing history.
Final analysis: Jamie press your suit, you're going to the Globes, quite possibly even the Oscars.