And these first images are reassuring. Jaalen Best seems simply stunning, as impressive in the ring as he is convincing in his performance. More remarkable still is his intense gaze, which suggests far more than a simple impersonation performance. The supporting roles also seem up to the task, and the whole thing suggests a biopic of very high quality. An excellent surprise that, judging by this trailer, could well live up to the legend of Ali.
The Muhammad Ali biopic is coming to Prime Video
Filmed in Toronto at the beginning of the year, the series aims to explore aspects of Ali’s life that documentaries have seldom addressed, focusing in particular on the man behind the champion and on his life between fights.
The first season begins in 1960, when the man still called Cassius Clay wins the Olympic gold medal, and ends in 1964, the year he wins the world heavyweight title for the first time.
Jaalen Best portrays Muhammad Ali, alongside Omari Hardwick and Dana Gourrier, who play his parents, Cassius “Cash” Clay Sr. and Odessa “Bird” Clay, respectively. Kai Parham lends his features to Rudy, Ali’s brother, who is also a boxer. Amin Joseph portrays Sonny Liston, one of the champion’s great rivals, while Michael Ealy plays Malcolm X.
Michael B. Jordan producing The Greatest
Lonnie Ali, the boxer’s widow, is among the series’ executive producers, alongside Michael B. Jordan, through his company Outlier Society, linked to Amazon MGM Studios by a production deal. The Greatest will be available from November 4 on Prime Video.
