In the 2020's, biopics have made quite a comeback in theaters. Audiences have been treated to the stories behind some of pop culture's biggest names. Add to that list, George Foreman in his self-titled film: Big George Foreman: The Miraculous Story of the Once and Future Heavyweight Champion of the World. It stars Khris Davis (Judas and the Black Messiah), Jasmine Mathews (The Tomorrow War), Forest Whitaker (The Last King of Scotland), Sullivan Jones (The Gilded Age), Lawrence Gilliard Jr. (Gangs of New York), John Magaro (The Big Short), and Sonja Sohn (Slam), with George Tillman Jr. directing.
The full title isn't the only thing somewhat long about this film as it sits at 129 minutes. That being said, it does cover nearly the entire lifespan of Foreman and because he lives such a full existence, there is no moment where the film drags.
Writer and director George Tillman Jr. does an excellent job showing the audience the highs and lows of Foreman's life: growing up in poverty, the school bullying, his penchant for fighting, his rise to fame and glory, and his spiritual journey. But what is not shown is why he becomes so angry, especially after he begins his rise to success. Viewers are treated to seeing him repay his mother back for all of the hard work she does for her family. He goes from "I don't have anywhere to go" to "Let me show you what's in the garage." So when the bullying is gone (save for his infamous feud with Muhammad Ali), one can only guess what lies under that thick skin of his which fuels all of his anger.
This is definitely a plot-driven movie (filled with the events that made Foreman who he is) but in biopics, audiences are looking for character-driven films. Viewers want to know about all of the things hiding underneath the boxing gloves and fame.
There is little said about the eponymous grill that reportedly made the boxing great at least $8 million a month for a number of years. While the one-liner nod is witty and clever, it doesn't make an impact in the movie despite making a big impact on Foreman's life.
The boxing scenes are filmed and choreographed wonderfully with unique shots that put viewers in the ring with them. Tillman Jr. covers Foreman's biggest fights including various bouts against Joe Frazier, Muhammad Ali, Jimmy Young, Evander Holyfield, and Michael Moorer.
The actors involved in this biopic do a great job as well. Khris Davis as the titular character keeps audiences enthralled. The women in Foreman's life are huge inspirations and a rock-solid support system, between his wife Mary (played by Jasmine Mathews) and his mother Nancy (played by Sonja Sohn). Mathews and Sohn do an excellent job filling those roles and tugging at viewers' heartstrings.
Moviegoers looking to either learn more about Foreman or those who want to watch an inspiring film will find this movie full of heart and spirit. There is a lot to like about Foreman who was both an underdog and a top contender. However, those looking for something a little more action-packed and fast-moving might want to save their theater ticket money for something else.