Big George Foreman review by Bobby Blakey
While a lot of people may recognize the name of George Foreman more for his famous grills, the man is a legend in the world of boxing fighting some of the all-time greats including Sonny Liston (sparring sessions), Joe Frazer, Evander Holyfield, Tommy Morrison and so many more. Now this icons life has come to the big screen with the film Big George Foreman starring Khris Davis, Jasmine Mathews, Sullivan Jones, Lawrence Gillard Jr., John Magaro, Sonja Sohn and Forest Whitaker from director The Hate You Give director George Tillman Jr. Can this film do the man’s legacy justice or will it fail to make it for a full round?
Big George Foreman follows the miraculous story of the once and future heavyweight champion of the world. Fueled by an impoverished childhood, Foreman channels his anger into becoming the World Heavyweight Champion, followed by a near-death experience that takes him from the ring to the pulpit. But when he sees his community struggle, he reclaims his title, becoming the oldest and most improbable heavyweight champion ever.
While I have been a fan of Foreman for years I admit that I didn’t know a lot about his life and career journey, so I was eager to dive into this film to learn more. I love films like this, but admit the way this film was dropped was worried that it might not live up to the hype of Foreman himself. Thankfully I was worried for nothing as the film brings everything needed to do his legacy and history justice.
The story dives right into his childhood and everything that set him on the path as expected. Knowing how jolly and humble Foreman always seemed it was surprising to see his past and anger that led him down so many dark paths before getting into the ring. Seeing everything he went through and accomplished just makes everything he has become so
much more powerful. Khris Davis is excellent as Foreman in all his different places in his life right up until the end.
The rest of the cast are great as well, but this is Davis’ film throughout and he knocks it out all around. It’s a well-crafted story that takes you through all facets of his life in an engaging way while feeding you all the information you need to fully understand the man and his legacy. I wish this film had gotten the bigger push it deserved, but hoping more people find it and discover the story of Foreman in and out of the ring.
Decide for yourself and check out Big George Foreman available now on digital, Blu-ray and DVD from Sony Home Entertainment.