Even if you are not a tennis fan, you have heard of Serena and Venus Williams. Their influence on the sporting world can be felt all over the world. They are great role models for young girls and women all over the planet. The story we didn't know was their rise in the tennis circle and professional circuit and in 2021 we got exactly that with the film 'King Richard'. The film stars now Oscar winning actor Will Smith as Richard Williams, Serena and Venus's father as he coaches the two girls in the early years of their career. So, did 'King Richard' live up to its acclaim and hype? I am pleased to say yes, yes it did. I had a great time with this film, it follows familiar beats that we have seen before in sports biopics, but is directed in a beautiful way by filmmaker Reinaldo Marcus Green (Monsters and Men). He does a great job with the material, proving to be a great actors director, with Will Smith giving a career best performance as Richard and the two young actresses playing Venus and Serena, Sanniya Sidney and Demi SIngleton who are just fantastic here. The story of King Richard itself is quite endearing. As I mentioned, it does play on genre tropes that we have seen before, but because the characters are so likeable and the underdog story is so poignant and of course its political and social relevance is handled with care and respect so the messaging doesn't feel forced. The character of Richard is complex and I think that Smith does a great job with the way the character is written. He feels real and the depiction feels very faithful from the archival footage I have seen of Richard Williams. Overall, I had a great time with 'King Richard'. The story is familiar and I am sure that tennis fans are aware of the rise of both Serena and Venus Williams, but this story was fresh to me. I was unaware of their rise and was quite surprised with the way the film plays out. The performances are fantastic and I love the way the film was directed. I would highly recommend this one for those looking for something that will pull at your heart strings. Pick up your copy today on DVD from your local Sanity or online today, you won't want to miss this one. Christopher Pattison wrote this blog post for Sanity. See more from Chris here

Beautiful story and quite eye opening regarding how hard the father (richard) worked towards inspiring and motivating his family along with a very supportive wife. How he had the foresight and determination to just keep going despite knock back after knock back. Definitely recommend this movie.

I can see why will smith won a Oscar great movie ?? 10/10

Very well acted. Feel it told the true story.

Based on a true story, King Richard takes a look back as viewers will witness the journey of two tennis superstars.  Following the life and upbringing of Venus and Serena Williams, where it all began.  The film’s lead, Richard Williams (Will Smith), is the proud and determined father of Venus and Serena.  Before his children were even born, Richard had set out a plan and goals for both of them, including how they would one day impact many as professional tennis athletes. At first, it’s understandable why many viewers may think Richard sounds like a mean father who pushes his children into playing tennis professionally. I’m proud to say this is not that kind of journey, and Richard is a person who is passionate with determination.  Sure, there are moments when he may overstep his advice and he somethings wrong.  Still, for the vast majority, nothing will stop him from making sure his daughters are well looked after and have great futures ahead of them.  So much so that Richard himself did lots of hard work, including studying tennis for himself and also coaching them.  He is a father who works hard.  This film looks at what life was like for this family before they hit fameand changed sporting history forever. King Richard is a dramatic story packed with many moments that are touching and powerful.  Actor Will Smith yet again brings an incredible performance.  Here, he brings a whole new look and personality unlike anything fans of Will Smith have seen before.  It is pleasing to see the actor do something new and fresh while honourably respecting the journey of the real-life William sisters. Overall, this is a touching and powerful true story of how two tennis superstars Venus and Serena Williams came to be thanks to their father, Richard Williams.  Actor Will Smith reminds the world that he’s still more than capable of delivering a role that feels extremely convincing while challenging himself to do something new, unlike anything we have seen before.  Side performances are also great, and the story is quite touching and memorable.  This is a solid film that many should see today. * This review has been written for Sanity. For more reviews from Walkden Entertainment, check out the link here: www.walkdenentertainment.com