The Greatest goes the distance

In the middle of Prime Video's captivating eight-part series "The Greatest," which explores the life of boxing legend Muhammad Ali, we witness the champion not at his peak, but possibly at his lowest point. Cassius Clay, the name he later adopted, has just suffered a major defeat in a fight, and his team struggles to help him regain his footing and return to the ring.

The episode then shifts to a black-and-white, almost dreamlike world, transporting Ali to a far-off place. This moment, both emotionally powerful and visually stunning, sums up the show's strengths. It highlights Ali as an engaging showman, a talented athlete, and a man with a tumultuous past, revealing that while the series is primarily about boxing, it also delves into the themes of history, faith, family, and politics surrounding the sport.

"The Greatest" sets itself apart from other notable portrayals of Ali's life, such as Michael Mann's film and Regina King's "One Night In Miami," by introducing a fresh perspective and giving Jaalen Best a chance to shine. Best captures Ali's charisma and presence both inside and outside the ring, emphasizing his vulnerability and authenticity as he navigates his newfound fame.

The series follows Ali as he returns to his hometown of Louisville, Kentucky, a celebrated Olympic champion, only to find himself surrounded by opportunistic individuals eager to profit from his success. The Ali family, including his mother Odessa (Dana Gourrier), father Cash (Omari Hardwick), and brother Rudy (Kai Parham), plays a crucial role in the narrative, shaping Ali's journey into one of the most famous figures in the world.

Despite the potential for controversy due to the Ali estate's involvement, showrunner Ben Watkins doesn't shy away from portraying the struggles and hardships Ali faced during this period. While the show occasionally stumbles with exaggerated portrayals of historical figures and some overwrought narrative elements, the strong performances, particularly by Best, keep the series engaging and emotionally resonant.

The final episode, directed by A.V. Rockwell ("A Thousand And One"), brings the story to a thrilling and fitting conclusion, highlighting the emotional and cinematic impact of Ali's journey. The scene where Best charges into the ring one last time, accompanied by a captivating soundtrack, is a testament to the series' ability to encapsulate the essence of Ali's greatness both in and out of the boxing ring. "The Greatest" premieres on Prime Video on November 4.