When We Were Kings
Oscar-winning documentary on the the 1974 heavyweight championship bout in Zaire - the Rumble in the Jungle - between champion George Foreman and underdog challenger Muhammad Ali. Covers the build-up, musical performances and cultural impact of this huge fight on African soil.
Ali is 32 and thought by many to be past his prime. George Foreman is 10 years younger and the undisputed champ. Promoter Don King wants to make a name for himself and offers both fighters five million dollars apiece to fight. So when they accept, King has only to come up with the money. He finds a willing backer in Mobutu Sese Suko, the dictator of Zaire, and the Rumble in the Jungle is set, including a musical festival featuring America's top black performers including James Brown and B.B. King.
Winner, Best Documentary Feature, Academy Awards 1996
1996Rating: PG, Low level violence88 minsUSA
DocumentarySport
- Director:
- Leon Gast ('B.B. King: Live in Africa', 'The Grateful Dead')
- Cast:
- Muhammad AliGeorge ForemanDon KingJames BrownB.B. KingSpike LeeNorman MailerGeorge Plimpton
When We Were Kings / Reviews
Time Out
A penetrating emotional analysis of the boxing which is nothing short of inspired.
Full review
The Washington Post
No comedian was ever funnier, no fighter ever faster than Muhammad Ali, who is caught at the top of his game in Leon Gast's valentine, When We Were Kings.
Full review
The New York Times
When Muhammad Ali achieved victory in Kinshasa on Oct. 30, 1974, he did far more than win a prize fight.
Full review
Roger Ebert
There is a palpable tension, as the two men step into the ring, that is not lessened because we know the outcome.
Full review
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