His story is the heart of the new film “King Richard,” opening Friday in US movie theaters and HBO Max, and formed with support from the Williams family and an upbeat song by Beyoncé.
Although Venus and Serena Williams are now household names and symbols of black women’s empowerment, the story of how they rose to the heights of sporting fame from a tough neighborhood in Los Angeles is barely known.
“It’s like asking someone to believe that the next two Mozarts live in your house,” an early skeptic tells him.
Tony Goldwyn said, “Richard had this vision and before Serena and Venus were born he actually wrote a 75- or 80-page manifesto that they were going to have two more kids and that they were going to be the top two tennis players in the world.” going to be.” , who stars as their first professional coach, Paul Cohen.
Williams was a big personality who constantly challenged Cohen’s training methods and technique.
“The real Paul told me he loved Richard for it. He knew where it was coming from, it was a place of love and commitment,” Goldwyn said.
Isha Price, one of Venus and Serena’s three older half-sisters, was an early collaborator on the script, providing the details and memories that made the film a family story. Richard Williams has been ill for years and did not attend.
Venus Williams said she got emotional seeing it. “Just like watery eyes, and moments, family moments together and father-daughter moments are like, ooh,” she said.
While authentic players are used as duets for most of the action in the film, actors Demi Singleton (Serena) and Sania Sidney (Venus) spend months intensively learning how to hit the ball, serve and play power tennis. Had to go through training. The young sisters were known.
“They are such extraordinary people and they are so nice. Such big hearts,” said Sydney. “He gave us great advice about growing up in this world and how he felt when he was a kid and how to always make sure you stay close to your family.”
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