On Nov. 2, I had the opportunity to view “King Richard,” a new film following the lives of Venus and Serena Williams and their life growing up in Compton. It is an incredibly touching story about how their father’s perseverance and faith got them to where they are now. 

Richard Williams and Oracene (“Brandi”) Williams Price are the parents of Serena Williams, Venus Williams, Lyndrea Price, Yetunde Price, Richard Williams III (a son from Richard’s prior relationship), Isha Price, and Ronner Williams (another son from Richard’s prior relationship). The loving parents wanted to ensure that their children would be safe and have bright futures that didn’t involve any street or gun violence, which was heavily prominent in their area of Compton, California. In order to do this, Richard and Oracene made sure that their five daughters attended school and received the best grades they could get. They also made sure that Venus and Serena (around the ages of 12 and 13 in the film) practiced tennis as often as they could. Richard even said himself that he had a plan for his family and that Venus and Serena would make an impact in the world and in the game of tennis. 

Along with telling a moving story, this film also included a very talented cast. Richard Williams is played by Will Smith,  “Brandi” Williams price is played by Aunjanue L. Ellis, Serena Williams is played by Demi Singleton, and Venus Williams is played by Saniyya Sidney. Each actor conveys the beauty and emotion in the film in a perfect way. Specifically, Smith truly played the role of a loving and devoted father and husband. 

Overall, the film evokes an overwhelming feeling of inspiration and hope. Richard Williams manifested his dreams and goals for his family and he and Brandi are the reason why we have the two powerful black women that are Venus and Serena Williams. 

King Richard can be seen in theaters on Nov. 19.

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