Unintentional Relinquishment of Command Authority
In the world of cinema, Michael Mann's 'Ali' stands as a testament to the life of one of the most iconic figures in sports history. Released on 15th August 1997, this 159-minute film offers a unique perspective on the life of Muhammad Ali, portrayed brilliantly by Will Smith.
The narrative structure of 'Ali' is far from conventional. Mann uses frequent close-ups and focus shifts to create a sense of immediate involvement, yet the overall overview remains disorienting. This approach mirrors the turmoil of the 1960s, with the apparent loss of control being a product of artistry rather than confusion.
The film begins with Ali's first title win in 1964 against Sonny Liston and ends with his successful comeback against George Foreman in the 'Rumble in the Jungle' ten years later. Along this journey, we witness Ali's decision to resist the draft during the Vietnam War, a silent moment that seems to follow his instinct.
Mann's direction is marked by his renowned perfectionism, which can make his films inaccessible. However, it's not clear if he occasionally lost his bearings or was overwhelmed by his heavyweight subject in 'Ali'. One example of this is the extended use of Linda Jones singing 'For Your Precious Love', disregarding narrative economy.
The film also delves into Ali's ideological shifts, most notably his joining and subsequent break with the Black Muslims. These transitions are portrayed through provocative scenes, such as a policeman enduring a provocation during a jog and a flashback to a young Clay seeing a lynching victim in a newspaper. Malcolm X, Ali's political mentor, initially has a significant role but his story ends abruptly with his assassination.
The relationship between Ali and sports reporter Howard Cosell grows closer over the years but remains distant. This dynamic is a stark contrast to the initially close eye Angelo Dundee, Ali's trainer, appears to have on him, a role that fades into the background as the story progresses.
Mann's 'Ali' consistently subverts expectations for a biopic by moving secondary figures from the periphery to the center or vice versa. For instance, the opening sequence features a deliberate montage of training images and live performances by Sam Cooke, setting the stage for the tumultuous journey ahead.
In the end, 'Ali' offers a captivating portrayal of a man who was more than just a boxer. It's a film that challenges conventional storytelling and invites viewers to delve deeper into the complexities of one of the most influential figures of the 20th century.
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