The Greatest

The Greatest is a biographical sports film from 1977 that brings boxing legend Muhammad Ali to the big screen. Starring Ali himself, the film is based on Ali's autobiography "The Greatest: My Own Story" and provides a dramatic recounting of Ali's illustrious career both within and outside the ring. The film also stars Ernest Borgnine, known for his Oscar-winning performance in Marty, and John Marley, remembered for his role in Love Story.

The film paints a vivid portrait of Ali's life beginning with his humble origins in Louisville, Kentucky, where, as a child named Cassius Clay, he discovers his boxing talents. From there, the narrative traces Ali's early moments of fame as he wins the gold medal in the light-heavyweight division at the 1960 Summer Olympics in Rome. The story of his progression from a promising young athlete to a world champion is depicted with realistically choreographed boxing scenes and stirring drama.

The Greatest offers an engaging exploration of Ali's controversial stand against the Vietnam War and his conversion to Islam. It depicts the stirring controversies that ensnared Ali's career in complexity, including his refusal to serve in the military which resulted in the stripping of his world title and boxing license. All of these elements are woven elegantly into the narrative, cultivating a picture of a man who's not just a sports icon, but a significant cultural and political figure of his time as well.

As Ali, Muhammad Ali delivers a performance that is enjoyed as much for its veracity as its charisma. His portrayal, already rich in familiarity and authenticity, provides an intimate glance into his life while recreating the electrifying energy he was known to bring into the boxing ring.

Sharing the screen with Ali, Ernest Borgnine portrays Angelo Dundee, Ali's longtime trainer. Borgnine brings humility and rough charm to the role, mirroring a presence that was pivotal in Ali’s career. John Marley appears as sportscaster Howard Cosell, a key figure in Ali's public life with whom he had a significant professional relationship. Marley imitates Cosell's distinctive speaking style, immersing himself into the character and illustrating the complex relationship between Ali and Cosell.

The Greatest also offers rich portrayals of the key figures in Ali's life, such as Sonji Roi, his first wife played by Broadway actress Annazette Chase, and Belinda Boyd, his second wife portrayed by Candice Major. Robert Duvall features in a small, yet, striking role of Bill McDonald, a composite of several men who were influential in Ali's career.

The film is not just a showcase of spectacular boxing matches – though there are plenty of those. It is a series of defining moments, pieced together to form a biography of a remarkable life. Each fight scene serves a purpose, reflecting the turbulent times, and the personal struggles and successes of Ali.

Directed by Tom Gries and Monte Hellman, the film does a noteworthy job of translating Ali's charismatic personality onto the silver screen. Furthermore, with a stirring musical score composed by none other than Michael Masser, including the Oscar-nominated song "The Greatest Love of All," the film adeptly uses music to heighten the emotion and underline the narrative arc, adding an extra layer of drama and inspiration to Ali's story.

In summary, The Greatest offers a captivating look at the life and career of Muhammad Ali. Through a mix of drama and biographical detail, the film shows how a young boy from Kentucky rose to become a global symbol of resistance and conviction. It encapsulates the essence of Ali's inspiring journey, blending moments of exhilarating triumphs, poignant struggles, and defiance in the face of adversity, making it a must-watch for both boxing aficionados and fans of great cinema.