Venus, Serena and a plan for greatness.|Nov. 18, 2021|United States|138 Min.|PG-13
Genre: Adventure;Drama;Family;Fantasy
Description: “King Richard” is a 2021 American biographical drama directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green, with a screenplay by Zach Baylin. The film chronicles the life of Richard Williams, the determined father and coach of tennis legends Venus and Serena Williams. Will Smith stars in the titular role, supported by Aunjanue Ellis, Saniyya Sidney, Demi Singleton, Tony Goldwyn, and Jon Bernthal.
The movie premiered at the 48th Telluride Film Festival on September 2, 2021, and was released in theaters and on HBO Max on November 19, 2021, by Warner Bros. Pictures. It received positive reviews, particularly for Will Smith’s acclaimed performance. The project was announced in March 2019, with Smith attached to play Richard Williams. Warner Bros. secured the rights after a competitive bidding process, and Green was confirmed as the director in June.
Casting began in earnest in early 2020, with Demi Singleton and Saniyya Sidney chosen to portray Serena and Venus Williams, respectively, while Aunjanue Ellis took on the role of their mother, Brandi Williams. Jon Bernthal joined as Rick Macci, and other notable actors, including Liev Schreiber, Susie Abromeit, Dylan McDermott, Katrina Begin, and Judith Chapman, were added to the ensemble. Tony Goldwyn later replaced Schreiber due to scheduling conflicts caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The film features the original song “Be Alive” by Beyoncé, released on November 12, 2021.
Principal photography commenced in January 2020 in Los Angeles, with the production spending $35.6 million in California and receiving $7.5 million in tax credits. Filming was temporarily halted in March 2020 due to the pandemic but resumed later that year. Will Smith reportedly earned $40 million for his role and generously rewarded his co-stars with bonuses following the decision to release the film simultaneously in theaters and on HBO Max.
Cast director: Reinaldo Marcus Green
Cast actor: Will Smith, Demi Singleton, Saniyya Sidney, Aunjanue Ellis, Jon Bernthal, Tony Goldwyn, Susie Abromeit, Dylan McDermott, Judith Chapman, Katrina Begin
Original name: King Richard