Making it short and sweet

Rating: 4/10 (26 December 2001)

Smith gives a terrific performance about the life and times of one Muhammad Ali (aka Cassius Clay), but the movie lacks the momentum to give the viewer any real definition as to the purpose of the film. Certainly it's a tribute to the great boxer, but there is no entertainment value in watching the brilliance of Ali onscreen.
There is nobility in the effort the actors give in order to make the movie authentic (and it is, in spades!) but there is just no reason for you to feel connected or moved at any time during the film.
I saw this movie and left the theatre feeling somewhat conflicted. On one hand I saw a fantastic and believable performance by Smith, while on the other hand the movie lulls and goes nowhere.
I simply did not enjoy this movie at all, I left the theatre feeling 5 bucks lighter and not moved a bit.