Genres: Documentary, TV Movie, History, Music
Languages: English, French
Year: 1996
Vote: 7.7
Festival & Award: Sundance - Special Jury Recognition
When We Were Kings
The showmakers
Overview
It's 1974. Muhammad Ali is 32 and thought by many to be past his prime. George Foreman is ten years younger and the heavyweight champion of the world. Promoter Don King wants to make a name for himself and offers both fighters five million dollars apiece to fight one another, and when they accept, King has only to come up with the money. He finds a willing backer in Mobutu Sese Suko, the dictator of Zaire, and the "Rumble in the Jungle" is set, including a musical festival featuring some of America's top black performers, like James Brown and B.B. King.
Indie vibes check
When We Were Kings, while a documentary, is considered independent due to its small budget and distinct, personal vision.