Documentary filmmaking is at an all-time high, at least in the public’s mind. With the advent of streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon, film fans have greater access to documentaries in 2019 than any other time in history. And with the public’s revitalized love of the genre, we’re seeing more and more high-profile filmmakers take their shot at a doc, with Antoine Fuqua being the latest, with his film “What’s My Name: Muhammad Ali.”
As seen in the first trailer for the documentary, Fuqua’s film follows the life and career of one of the greatest icons in sports history, if not American history – Muhammad Ali, formerly known as Cassius Clay. Using recordings of Ali’s own voice, the filmmaker is going to tell the story of the greatest boxer of all time in a way that has never been done before. And judging by the footage being shown, it appears that just as much time will be spent discussing Ali’s impact on society through his beliefs and social commentary than with his performance in the ring.
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HBO is releasing ‘What’s My Name’ over the course of two parts beginning in May. The film is directed by Fuqua, who is probably best known as the director of “Training Day,” as well as the “Equalizer” films, “Southpaw,” “Olympus Has Fallen,” and “The Magnificent Seven” remake. He’s joined by executive producer LeBron James, who is coming into his own as a Hollywood figure, despite his day job of being the best NBA player in the world.
“What’s My Name: Muhammad Ali” premieres on HBO on May 14.
Here’s the synopsis:
Chronicling the extraordinary life of one of the 20th century’s most iconic figures, this two-part documentary explores Ali’s challenges and triumphs through recordings of his own voice. Directed by Antoine Fuqua and executive produced by LeBron James and Maverick, What’s My Name | Muhammad Ali premieres May 14 at 8PM on HBO.