Joe Frazier: When the Smoke Clears

Joe Frazier: When the Smoke Clears is a gripping 2011 documentary film that delves deep into the personal and professional life of the legendary boxing icon, Joe Frazier. Directed by Mike Todd, the film enlists a potent repertoire of major personalities from the boxing kingdom and beyond, including George Benton, Angelo Dundee, and George Foreman, all of whom share their unique perspectives on Frazier, framing a multifaceted narrative of the boxer's life.

This fascinating documentary starts by charting the rise of Frazier from humble beginnings in the American South to the national stage of boxing in the 1960s and 70s. His journey is not merely that of an individual athlete elevated to global fame, but equally significantly, an exploration of the socio-political maelstrom of the era that shaped him. The film empathetically depicts Frazier's life as a sportsperson, his confrontations and remarkable rivalry with Muhammad Ali, and his relentless pursuit of identity and acceptance within an often tumultuous world.

George Benton, a renowned boxing coach and mentor for Frazier, shares his perspective on the boxer's skill and discipline. His personal reflections not only illuminate the raw talent and tenacity of Frazier but also shed light on the bond that they shared within the ring and beyond. These insights help the audience understand the magnitude of Frazier's contribution to the sport and his immeasurable influence upon the boxing fraternity.

Angelo Dundee, a familiar face in the boxing world and mentor to many prominent fighters, including Muhammad Ali, also contributes to the narrative arc. The beauty of the film lies in the balanced storytelling approach—offering a varied perspective on Frazier's legendary boxing career. Through Dundee, you get to hear about Frazier from the other side of the ring—an opponent's mentor—which truly heightens the rich texture of the narrative.

Similarly, the film does not shy away from the perspective of George Foreman, another legendary heavyweight boxer. Foreman's contribution to the documentary establishes an expressive narrative on Frazier, especially regarding their personal and professional relationship. Given they were contemporaries, Foreman's insights bring forth the competitive spirit and mutual respect fans admired about the golden era of heavyweight boxing.

Furthermore, the inclusion of exclusive clips from Frazier's most iconic bouts, interviews, and previously unseen footage from his personal archives add authenticity and depth to the film. The story also transcends boxing infiltrating into Frazier's personal world, allowing the audience to appreciate the man behind the boxing gloves—his struggles, his triumphs, and his unwavering commitment to the sport.

Additionally, the film does not omit the circumstances of Frazier's life post-retirement, highlighting his efforts to keep alive his passion for boxing through his gym in Philadelphia. These references further validate Frazier's dedication to the sport and his continued influence over the generations of boxers and fans that followed—a testament to Frazier's indomitable spirit.

Joe Frazier: When the Smoke Clears is not just about the man, but about the time he lived in—a time of intense social change and racial struggle, a time where boxing became more than a sport, a platform used for political statements and personal rivalries that reverberated across the globe. The film captures these events and moods that framed and defined Joe Frazier's life, providing a poignant, comprehensive, and captivating tribute to the boxing virtuoso.

This is not just a sports documentary, but a significant historical piece, one that paints a vivid picture of the trials and triumphs of one of boxing's greatest figures. With captivating narratives from close friends, rivals, mentors, and the man himself interwoven with archival footage, the film crafts a compelling and immersive portrait of Joe Frazier's life—a must-see exploration for boxing enthusiasts and those interested in sports history. The documentary stands as a testament to Frazier's resilient spirit, his relentless pursuit of greatness, and his unparalleled impact on the world of boxing.